Meg Carroll was a pillar of LDA of Illinois. Meg’s contributions to LDA and to the field of Special Education were immeasurable. Meg passed away suddenly on December 20, 2024. Meg will truly be missed.

Tributes

Cori Lynn, former student

No!! Oh my gosh, I wouldn’t be where I am without Dr. Carroll! She is truly an inspiration in the special education community and beyond. Her classes transformed me into who I am as a teacher. She taught me my philosophical views as an educator and provided so much knowledge in how to meet all student’s needs. Meg had a belief that all students can learn and that is a thought that will remain with me forever. Thank you, Meg, your dedication to your field and the community will never be forgotten. She will be forever loved and missed! May her memory be eternal.

Miranda Marie, former student

Meg is truly awe-inspiring and has made such a difference in this world. I am so grateful she was my advisor and she is truly irreplaceable. May she rest in peace. God has a very special place for Meg.

Julie Groschowski Newtoff, former student

If it wasn’t for her, I would never have finished college. I went on to get my master’s in special education, where Meg knew I belonged. May she rest in peace. Prayers to her family.

Julie Alvarado, former student & former LDA of IL board member

Dr. Meg Carroll, a woman that inspired me in many ways. When I was a young college student I did not originally choose education as a career. It was only after my time at Saint Xavier working in the education departments STAR learning center did I realize my path. Dr Carroll was the light that guided me through many of my milestones in education at SXU. She was one of the major reasons why I continued my graduate work in special education at SXU. She was my teacher, my mentor, and a colleague that taught me so very much. She once observed my teaching as part of my graduate work. She said that I reminded her of her own teaching style. What a compliment! So many experiences in my career are connected to Meg. Fast forward many years of staying in contact via SXU and my career in the neighboring mercy school and through the LDA, Meg was my “go to” when my daughter chose to attend SXU. Meg took time to help her manage her credits to graduate and even met with her to help guide her through a class. She went above and beyond for everyone she encountered. Dr. Carroll was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and engaging and generous in every way. You were drawn to her. She will be forever missed from my life and so many others. RIP and may perpetual light shine upon her.

Stephanie Zych, former student & LDA of IL board member

In honor of the memory of Dr. Meg Kelly Carroll, an extraordinary  educator, mentor, and cherished friend. Her presence at St. Xavier University in Chicago and the Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of learning from her, working with her, or simply knowing her. Dr. Carroll’s passion for education was unparalleled. As a teacher, she transformed classrooms into spaces of inspiration and possibility. She believed deeply in the power of knowledge to uplift and empower, and her dedication to her students’ success went far beyond academic achievements.

One of Dr. Carroll’s most remarkable qualities was her unwavering commitment to supporting students with disabilities. She possessed an extraordinary ability to see the unique strengths and potential in every individual and worked tirelessly to ensure that all students could thrive. Her deep understanding of inclusive practices and her compassionate approach made her a champion for those who often faced significant barriers in their educational journeys. Through her guidance, countless students discovered their voices, built confidence, and achieved their goals. As a mentor, Dr. Carroll was a beacon of wisdom and encouragement. She had an extraordinary ability to see potential in others and guide them toward fulfilling their dreams. Her mentorship was not limited to the professional sphere; she nurtured hearts and minds with the same devotion. She was a listener, a motivator, and a trusted guide who made everyone feel seen and valued.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Carroll was a true friend to many. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering support created bonds that transcended time and circumstance. She celebrated life with joy, compassion, and an infectious enthusiasm that uplifted everyone around her. Dr. Carroll’s legacy is woven into the fabric of St. Xavier University, Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois and the countless lives she touched. Her influence will continue to ripple through the achievements of her students, the guidance she provided to her colleagues, and the memories held by all who called her a friend.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, her spirit will remain with us-in the lessons she taught, the lives she shaped, and the love she shared.

Thank you, Dr. Carroll, for being a shing light in our lives. You will forever be remembered and cherished.

Pat Brown, LDA of IL Secretary

I have always admired Meg’s dedication and devotion to LDA of IL and her sense of humor and common sense during Board meetings. I will miss her devotion and support to the group.

Judy Larson, LDA of IL Treasurer

I could listen to Meg’s voice forever! She had such a calm, friendly, nurturing, intellectual and professional manner that put me under a spell every time! I will miss you so much, Meg.

Kathleen Loftus, former LDA of IL President

Meg was such a dedicated and caring educator, as well as a loyal and supportive friend-I’m heartbroken.

Paola Vieyra, LDA of IL board member

My deepest condolences to Meg’s family and to the LDA for such a deep loss. I adored Meg and had the privilege of calling her my mentor and friend. Her legacy is astounding and her memory will be honored forever as we continue to advocate for special education needs and teach with all minds and hearts.

Chaya Rubenstein, LDA of IL board member

I so enjoyed working with Meg on the LDA Board, especially those live meetings at St. Xavier. What a privilege it was to exchange ideas and share conversation with her at those meetings! She was always full of ideas, enthusiasm and was so thoughtful and pleasant.

Shada Badawi, colleague

I am deeply saddened to share the passing of a remarkable woman who was more than just a professor or teacher to me-she was a guide, a mentor, and a second mother. I was fortunate to be part of the 2012 cohort for special education at Saint Xavier University, and I can say with certainty that without her support, I would not have completed my master’s degree in special education. She encouraged me through every challenge, offering kindness, understanding, and unwavering acceptance. Her impact on my life extended far beyond academics. When I approached her after graduation with concerns about the lack of resources for autism in the Middle East, she didn’t hesitate to step in. Together, we developed the Optimism Kit: Reaching Children with Autism, a program dedicated to supporting children with autism and their families. Her belief in this project and her dedication to making a difference inspired me in ways words cannot express.

She was not only a mentor but also a dear friend to my family. My children remember her fondly-she was the first person to teach my son the alphabet. For me, she corrected my speech, helped refine my English pronunciation, and gave me the confidence I needed to navigate life in a new culture. She was a constant source of advice, wisdom, and compassion. Her legacy is one of selflessness, encouragement, and love. She touched countless lives, including mine, in profound ways. While her physical presence may no longer be with us, her impact and the lessons she imparted will remain with me forever. I am eternally grateful to have had her in my life, and I will carry her memory with me always. I personally feel that the greatest tribute to Meg Carroll would be for all who were privileged to know her and the essence she shared, is to continue to share what she gave to others; thus, she lives on through us.

Rania Sadeq, co-worker at Saint Xavier University

Dr. Meg Carroll was remarkable woman, a cherished colleague, and a mentor to many, including myself. Meg was a brilliant educator who deeply loved her family, friends, and students. She generously shared her knowledge and was always ready to advise, assist, and listen to anyone in need of her guidance. Meg’s innovative teaching methods inspired me to continually seek new ways to reach my students. Her unwavering advocacy and support for children with learning disabilities, as well as their families, was truly contagious. Meg introduced me to the wonderful Learning Disabilities Association (LDA) and shared with me the incredible work they do.

There was no limit to how far Meg was willing to go to help her students. From late-night meetings and study groups to years of mentoring until she saw them walk the stage, Meg’s dedication was boundless. Her students appreciated her as their professor, but more importantly, they love her as a person. I am one of countless individuals who will miss talking to Meg every day. I will miss her wisdom, insight, kindness, and smile. I will miss hearing her voice in the office and all the endearing motherly nicknames she had for us. May Meg rest in peace, and may all her loved ones find the strength to move forward and honor her memory always. Love you, my friend!

Dr. Pamela Stecker, PH.D., Clemson University

Meg was pregnant with her youngest, Tim, when I interviewed at St. Xavier. She returned from maternity leave when I started working there, and I have fond memories of holding Tim and watching him for her on occasion when she attended meetings. I got to know her family. We lived in the same neighborhood in Blue Island for a couple of years. Meg was so good to me-to everyone. I looked up to her while I was at SXU. Our offices were next door, and we talked frequently. I never knew how she had time, though, because I have yet to meet anyone who worked as hard, taught as much, spoke to schools and professional associations as frequently, served on boards, etc., as Meg Carroll. She just made time for everyone. She had an enormous impact on students, faculty, staff, the community. She was a remarkable individual.

Cindy Cipoletti and Rachel Krueger, LDA of America

Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your dear friend and colleague, on behalf of ourselves and the LDA of America Board of Directors and Professional Advisory Board.

Dr. E. Paula Crowley, Illinois Council for Exceptional Children President

Dr. Meg Carroll’s long professional commitment as an educator is characterized by her caring, clarity, and compassion. We will miss her deeply. Dr. Carroll’s caring was clear in her eagerness to help whenever and wherever she was needed. She was an ardent supporter of Illinois Council for Exceptional Children (ICEC) and participated in numerous roles over the years. She presented a session titled “Purposefully Adding Physical Components to All Instruction” during the 75th Annual ICEC Convention on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Her numerous presentations illustrate how clearly, she understood her craft. During her career she did all she could to share her clarity and deep understanding with others. Dr. Carroll enriched our lives immeasurably. Let us go forward to do all we can to continue the work she left behind for us. May Dr. Carroll rest in peace and may her memory always be a blessing.

A teaching colleague of mine had Meg as one of her professors, and she was always effusive in her praise of Meg. In fact, she emulated her, hoping to work on and earn her doctorate so that she could also teach and mentor future special educators. I, like so very many others, remember Meg as a brilliant, warm and giving woman, and will miss her greatly. May Meg’s memory be a blessing.