Anece Faison McCloud

Anece F. McCloud, educator, trailblazer, and author, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona, at the age of 88.

Born in 1937 and raised in rural North Carolina, Anece devoted her life to expanding opportunity and belonging in higher education. After earning a B.S. from Bennett College in 1959 and later an M.A. from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 1989, she became a pioneering student-affairs leader. She served as the first Director of Minority Affairs at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) and later as Associate Dean of Students for Minority and International Student Affairs at Washington & Lee University from 1985 to 1999. Her work centered on access, support, and the creation of inclusive communities for students from historically underrepresented backgrounds.

A gifted storyteller and mentor, Anece reflected on her journey in her memoir, Seeking Personal Validation: The Life and Times of an African American, Female, Academic, which chronicles her experiences with racism, classism, and colorism and her rise to leadership in academia. In recognition of her impact at Washington & Lee, the Anece F. McCloud Excellence in Belonging Award continues to honor students whose leadership advances inclusion on campus.

She is survived by her daughters, Aja Siobhan and Carla Queipo (Mark); her brothers, James Faison and Tommy Cole; her grandson, Dillon R. Christensen; and her beloved nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at The Fountains at La Cholla, Northwest Medical Center, and Pima County Hospice for their compassionate care.

Per her wishes no service or memorial is planned. Her family welcomes your thoughts, prayers, and remembrances in the days ahead.