Sandra Lee Callan

Sandy was a born educator, forever curious and excited to share in the splendor and beauty of all living things. After attending Fontbonne Academy for Girls, she acquired her Associate’s degree from Los Angeles City College. She attended University of California Davis for several semesters before finishing her Bachelor’s in Secondary Education in Biology at California University of Pennsylvania. She began her illustrious career substituting high school sciences, then went on to spend 30 years teaching, supporting, guiding, and building up students at Community College of Allegheny County. She cherished her time there, almost as much as her students and colleagues cherished her. Her reputation as an esteemed educator and student advocate earned her several years as the Biology Department Chair. She began and led several programs at CCAC, including Biotech Bootcamp and Women in Science. Every second she spent on campus was a commitment to give every person who stepped into her classroom the support and confidence to succeed. She shared her wonder of the living sciences with the community as well. Many of her volunteer efforts were focused on expanding science education to underprivileged communities through programs with The Carnegie Science Center, The National Aviary, and community garden projects. She wanted to make sure everyone knew that they deserve a chance to be their best self.

She shared that kindness and support, and so much more, with her beloved children and granddaughter. Everything she did in her life was for them, and if she was with them, she was happy. They were her world, and they will forever feel the love she gave them. 

Sandy was preceded in death by her loving parents, Edmund and Elizabeth Winstel, and her nephew, Marcus Miller. She leaves behind her two children, Michael and Autumn, and her granddaughter, Rosemary Whitehead; three siblings, Ned, Pam Frank, and Laura Miller; her niece, Rachel Bucki, her nephew, D.J. Miller, and several cousins; and countless colleagues, students, and friends who will endlessly miss her.

Due to current public health safety concerns, services will be private. A celebration of life will be held in the spring where all who knew and loved her will be encouraged to safely attend. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her name to the National Aviary.

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