Lucinda Susan Lavelli's Obituary
Lucinda “Cindy” Susan Lavelli, the beloved wife of Kenneth Webster M.D. (deceased), passed away peacefully on November 24, with family and friends by her side. Cindy devoted her life to her family and fostered creativity through the belief that the arts strengthen both individuals and communities, and will be remembered as a beloved sister, aunt, great-aunt, stepmother and passionate leader in the arts.
Across a long-storied career, Cindy was a “Wonder Woman of the Arts”, most recently serving as the Dean of the College of the Arts at the University of Florida from 2006 until her retirement in 2018. During her tenure, she championed programs like the interdisciplinary Creative B summer initiative and the Creativity in Arts & Science Event (CASE), helping to bridge the gap between art, science and innovation. Her approach to leadership was marked by empathy, open listening and a drive to build consensus. Her dedication was recognized in 2019 when she received the Lennie Kesl Lifetime Arts Award from the Gainesville Cultural Affairs Board for her sustained contributions to the arts.
Originally from Rocky River, Ohio, Cindy followed her mother to Granville, Ohio where she received her bachelor’s degree from Denison University. She then earned both a master’s degree in Nonprofit Management and a Master of Fine Arts at Case Western Reserve University. From 1981 to 1993, Cindy worked as chairwoman of performing arts and director of dance at Hathaway Brown School. Cindy then left in 1993 to become the director of the School of Dance and later the director of the School of Dance, Theatre and Arts Administration, at the University of Akron. After 9 yrs. in Akron, Cindy was named the provost and vice chancellor for arts and academics at North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston Salem. In 2006 Cindy left for the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida until her retirement in 2018.
In her final years, Cindy was a compassionate and loving caregiver for her husband and bravely battled numerous health issues of her own. Preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth, and her parents, Dante and Joy. She is survived by her brother Edward Lavelli, her sister Lisa Lavelli Bill (Matthew), her nephews Aaron Bill (Teresa), Noah Bill (Marissa) and Luke Bill and niece Danielle Lavelli. She is also survived by her four great - nephews: Alexander and Harrison (Aaron), Warren and Bennett (Noah). She was a stepmother to the Webster family - Dr. Jeffrey (Bridget Duncan), Douglas, Kelly and also step-grandmother and great grandmother.
Her family remembers Cindy not just for her professional accomplishments, but for her warmth, encouragement, and unwavering support. She had a remarkable ability to bring people together, to mentor with patience, and to celebrate creativity in others. The family will gather for a Celebration of Life at a later date. In memory of Cindy, please consider a donation to the Lucinda Lavelli Business of the Arts Fund (Fund 022827) at the University of Florida: UF Foundation, Inc., PO Box 14425, Gainesville, FL 32604-9949
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