Wendie Ann Dockstader,
September 26, 1963 – March 4, 2022

We deeply regret to inform the BLiSC community that Wendie Dockstader, who was a vital part of inStem in its early years, passed away on March 4, 2022.

Wendie was a force of nature: her can-do attitude, deeply practical instincts and dedication to her work left a mark on everyone she met. She accompanied Rams from the University of Iowa when he moved his lab to inStem in 2009. With a degree in Biochemistry, but a marvelously varied background from managing a bar in Iowa, to working in a cheetah conservancy reserve in Namibia, Wendie brought multiple competences, a tough resilience, an open attitude and keen sense of justice to her professional life.

At inStem, she was responsible for many of the foundational aspects that we needed to establish in order to begin scientific activities. Wendie wrote and operationalized the biosafety protocols, ordered and functionalized major and minor equipment, and worked with and supported staff and students at all levels to ensure harmonious functioning in those early chaotic days, when inStem was emerging from an idea to a reality. Most importantly, her quiet competence and confidence gave her colleagues a sense of strength.

Wendie’s contribution to inStem’s early years was critical, and her impact on her colleagues and friends was unforgettable. We celebrate her life and are grateful for her friendship and collegiality, and send our deepest condolences to her family.

Jyotsna Dhawan
S. Ramaswamy
Former Deans, inStem