Tribute to Howard Cogan

Yesterday we received our IC View and today I sat down to read it. In the back are the obits and it is sad to read about the passing of so many. One in particular shocked me. On Febuary 16, 2008 my favorite Ithaca College professor, Howard Cogan died of Alzheimer's at the age of 78. My heart sank. I truly loved Howard Cogan. He was my favorite professor at IC. He had a huge impact on my life not only while I was in college but after. I have so many fond memories of spending time with Howard and his wonderful Helen. They were devoted to each other and my heart just breaks for Helen. The last time I saw Howard and Helen was in June 2001 at my 15th college reunion. I went and visited them in their home in Lansing. Shortly they moved back into town and sold their big farm house with barn and many acres. I first met Howard in my sophomore year when I took Intro to Advertising. The class took place in the New Building as we called it and Howard was just so full of energy and passion as a teacher. He made you laugh. He made you feel important. His office was downstairs in Dillingham. He still owned his own ad agency downtown and his greatest joy was his new grandson Alexander. Howard gave me so much, he believed in my talents and creativity. When I graduated IC in 1986 we celebrated at a special dinner with Howard and Helen at a place called the Country Cubard. They gave me a beautiful pearl necklace for graduation. Howard loved his students. He was a passionate teacher who put his all into his classroom. He was an amazing father and husband. I have sent the Cogan's a holiday card every year for 22 years. Thank you Howard for being in my life, for enriching it, for making me a better person, for believing in me, for inspiring me and for teaching me. You have left a legacy at Ithaca College, you were loved by so many students. I know I am not alone today in crying for you, so many will read of your passing and remember you and what an amazing person and teacher you were. I will remember you always.