Denita Hampton—one of the founders of the Access Services Conference and a longtime ASiL board member—passed away this week. We are heartbroken by this loss and grateful for the years of dedication she gave to ASiL and to the access services community.

Denita was a cornerstone of this community from the very beginning. Many of us remember her as the steady presence at our events—the one checking people in at the door, welcoming attendees, making sure things ran smoothly, and gently (or not so gently) keeping us all in line when needed. That was Denita: dependable, honest, and deeply committed.

Denita retired from Georgia State University, but retirement never meant stepping away from the work she cared about. She continued to support access services and ASiL through her time, dedication, and belief in our mission. Her contributions helped shape not only our organization, but the sense of community that defines it.

She leaves behind her daughter, Ashley, her mother Mrs. Hampton, and her very best friend and fellow ASiL founder, Stella Richardson. Our hearts are with them, and with all who had the privilege of knowing Denita not just as a colleague, but as a friend. To the right is a photo taken at a 2025 Atlanta Falcons game, a pastime she and Stella often enjoyed together. Denita is pictured on the left, Stella on the right.