Remebering Fern Silva

Image Provided by Michele Sieglitz

Fern Silva, the digital cinema facility manager and lab instructor in the Communication department known for his friendliness and devotion to students, died on June 3.

Silva was instrumental in transforming what was once a television broadcast studio in the Communication department into a digital cinema space where students create and edit films on a professional level.

“We were just like siblings and we were the two old dogs in the department,” said Communication Department Chair Michael Whalen. “It will never be the same for me in that facility.”

Silva’s presence will be sorely missed by students and colleagues. “I would hear from the production lab, his music very early in the morning,” said Michele Sieglitz, lecturer in the Communication department. “His energy was so ever present in our department.”

Silva taught at Santa Clara University for more than two decades, earning a reputation for his friendliness and reliability. 

“He was always there with a positive word,” said Martii Kuznicki, Communication department manager. “I never saw Fern in a bad mood.”

Silva was voted best professor in the Communication department in 2018. He also received the Nancy Keil Service Excellence Award for his administrative work within the film facilities and for his dedication to assisting students with their film projects.

“It is a loss that will be felt by the whole department,” Kuznicki wrote in an email.

Seamus McMahon, a student who worked closely with Silva, said he always started his classes enthusiastically with his favorite music videos from the ‘80s, determined to get students engaged and excited to learn. His dog, Glossie, was often by his side and was considered the department mascot.

“I owe my future and awesome editing skills to Fern Silva,” said McMahon.

Colleagues of Silva admired his willingness to take on any challenges. As the facility manager, he  excelled at maintaining the lab facilities so students had access to advanced cameras and editing software. He was quick to master new equipment, eager to bring in modern technology for students. 

Despite not coming from a film background, Silva was commonly seen as the heart of the film program. He had a talent for knowing exactly what students needed.

“He would always take the time to help [students], even if they aren't in his lab, or if it's just like the end of the quarter, and we're showing our project three. He’s still willing to help out,” said Michael Davis, a student who got to know Silva over his time here.

Silva was known for his friendly approach. “He was extremely multi-talented and, most importantly, one of the kindest people on this campus,” student Gia Reid said. 

Silva helped organize the annual Genesis Film Showcase featuring student work. There will be a remembrance held for him in his honor at the event on June 12.

“Nothing pleased him more than to see a student excel in some way, shape or form,” Whalen said.

The memorial service for Fern Silva will be on Wednesday, June 26, 2pm at the Mission Church.

Article updated with corrected typos