Remembering Kimberly C. Parker: A Lasting Legacy of Kindness and Service

The Tepper School of Business community is remembering the impact and dedication of Kimberly Parker, Recruiting Coordinator in the Masters Career Center (MCC), who passed away on June 28, 2026.

Kimberly recently celebrated her 30th anniversary as a Carnegie Mellon University staff member, having joined the Tepper School in 1996. Throughout her career, she became a familiar presence for generations of graduate students, alumni, corporate recruiters, and colleagues. She served as Recruiting Coordinator in the MCC, helping to coordinate recruiting activities while ensuring students and employer partners felt supported throughout the process.

"Kimberly was an important part of the Masters Career Center at the Tepper School of Business," wrote longtime colleague and friend Lynn Urso in a tribute shared with the Tepper School community. "Whether she was guiding students through their career searches, helping employers with their schedules, or supporting me and our fellow staff members, Kimberly’s compassion, humor, and wisdom left a lasting impression on everyone she met."

While Kimberly's responsibilities centered on recruiting operations, those who knew her remember her most for the way she made people feel. Whether greeting students before interviews, welcoming recruiters to campus, or lending a helping hand to a colleague, Kimberly approached every interaction with care. Her kindness left an impression that endured long after students graduated and recruiters returned to their organizations.

Kimberly was also a familiar face at the annual Alumni Reunion and many other school events, where she volunteered her time and enjoyed reconnecting with alumni and friends.

“Kimberly's professionalism and friendship was combined with a healthy dose of wit and candor that was uniquely hers,” said Steve Rakas, Executive Director of the MCC. “In her many years on the job, she positively impacted countless students and recruiters and made many lifelong friends. We will miss her and offer our sincerest sympathies to her family and friends.”

Kimberly's dedication and compassion will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The Tepper School extends its deepest condolences to Kimberly's family, friends and colleagues. She will be greatly missed, and her memory will remain an enduring part of our community.