Christopher Madrid | PantherNOW Staff Writer
On December 9th, Modern Language Professor Toshimi Abe-Janiga passed away at 62. Around 5:41am on her morning walk, Abe-Janiga was run over by a vehicle which fled the scene. The vehicle has since been identified.
FIU Faculty sent a message to students in Japanese and Modern Language classes about her passing.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our dear friend and colleague. On her daily morning jog, Toshimi was hit by a car. Her kindness, warmth, and love touched the lives of many.”
Abe-Janiga immigrated to the United States from Japan and taught English Language Arts and Holocaust studies at FAU. For 18 years she has been a beloved member of education in South Florida. Her influence and accomplishments were numerous.
She was a Japanese Language Instructor in Palm Beach County’s Adult Education program, and an adjunct lecturer and professor at FIU’s SIPA Department, teaching Japanese Literature and Cinema. She won the 2021 Palm Beach County District Teacher of the year, 2013 United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Teacher Fellow, and 2011 winner of the Gutterman Family Center for Holocaust and Human Rights Education Educator award.
Abe-Janiga led several Holocaust events and workshops. She was famed for her reputation at making Holocaust lessons informative and accessible for students. At Riviera Beach Preparatory, she taught English Language Arts and Holocaust Studies. Principal Mark Simmonds made a comment about her untimely death.
“Mrs. Abe-Janiga was an extraordinary educator who touched the lives of countless students. She had a unique ability to make history come alive–turning complex subjects, like the Holocaust and World War II, into meaningful learning experiences.”
Toshimi Abe-Janiga (left) and Principal Mark Simmons (right). Source: wptv.com/news/
Toshimi Abe-Janiga’s arrangements are pending.
The Office of Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) is available for supporting students and may be reached at (305) 348-2277. The Office of Employee Assistance (OAE) is available for supporting staff and may be reached at (305) 348-2469.
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