Join us as we commemorate the life and legacy of Blanca and Tom Riley

Blanca Riley, who passed away last December, was a trailblazer, a charismatic leader, and a beloved member of the FIU community who left an indelible mark on the university. Together with her surviving husband Tom Riley, former Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Associate Director for Academic Support Services, they dedicated over six decades of combined service to FIU, helping to transform the university from an ambitious dream into a thriving institution.

Blanca brought a vibrant energy and joy to everything she did. She was a visionary who recognized the power of technology and its role in higher education. Blanca’s journey at FIU began before the university officially opened its doors in 1972. Starting as a film librarian, she earned a BA in Marketing in 1974 and MPA in 1980. Her career advanced steadily, with roles including Director of University Telecommunications & Instructional Media Services, and Director of University Space Utilization, Scheduling & Analysis.