Dear CCA Community,

I am writing with the sad news that Sydney Carson, Professor Emerita, Writing & Literature and Critical Studies passed away recently after an extended illness.

Sydney taught at the college for 43 years, building a legacy that is still cherished by faculty, staff, and students.  She was a valued and active member of several programs at CCA including Writing and Literature, Critical Studies and the MFA Program in Writing. Her imaginative classes, including Globalization and the Environment, Improvisation for Writers and Artists, and Down the Rabbit Hole (Children’s Literature) inspired our students with innovative connections across discipline and practice.

As founder of the award-winning theater/performance art group the Nightletter Theater, and a prolific artist and activist, her impact also continues to be felt across the Bay Area and beyond.

Sydney was a passionate and admired member of our family who’s teaching and creative practice exemplified CCA’s commitment to community engagement and social justice.  Her literary and artistic accomplishments continue to influence generations of artists and writers.  

We are proud to remember Sydney Carson as part of our community.

Her daughters, Tamar and Maya Carson will be organizing a gathering to celebrate her life and we will keep you apprised as their plans evolve.

Please feel free to contact Sydney’s daughter’s Tamar and or Maya directly:

Tamar Carson tamarrogelio@yahoo.com and Maya Carson at: mayacycles@gmail.com

With regards,

Stephen Beal

President