Laurie Potter

Laurie Potter died peacefully at the Hidden Valley home she shared with her late husband, Dr. George T. Potter. Born in Brooklyn, Laurie spent significant years in New Jersey, where Dr. Potter was founding president of Ramapo College. They moved to Santa Barbara after he retired in 1992.

In a written tribute, current Ramapo president Cindy R. Jebb said, “Together, the Potters championed groundbreaking programs at Ramapo that expanded higher education opportunities for traditionally underrepresented students including women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. . . . Laurie’s steadfast advocacy, warmth, and dedication helped lay the groundwork for a culture of access and belonging that remains a defining mark of excellence at Ramapo College today.”

After George died in 2009, Laurie established the George T. Potter and Laurie Potter, Ph.D. Endowment, benefitting students with disabilities who plan to pursue graduate school.

Laurie earned a doctorate herself from Fielding Graduate University and had wide-ranging interests in art, music, literature and nature. She enjoyed singing in the choir at the Santa Barbara Unitarian Society. She was a close friend of the late Ken Ryals, director of the choir, and would often take care of his dog, Millie. With Millie on her lap, they would meditate together in the afternoon.

Laurie is survived by her son Paul Schulz, daughter Kathy Schulz, stepdaughter Beth Potter, and her granddaughter Kelly Potter.

A memorial service will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 3, at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara. Donations may be made to the Unitarian Society or the George and Loretta Scholarship fund at Ramapo College of New Jersey.