Lindsey Fields Biology Lab Dedicated in Moving Ceremony

On Monday, May 19, Butler Community College faculty, staff, and administration gathered to honor the life and legacy of a beloved educator at the dedication of the Lindsey Fields Biology Lab on the Andover campus.

Nestled in the northwest corner of the 5000 building, the classroom served as Fields’ primary teaching space. With a bronze plaque now located on the wall next to its main entrance, the lab bears her name as a tribute to the lasting impact she had on the college and its students.

Fields tragically passed away in the American Airlines Flight 5342 crash this past January, a loss that sent shockwaves throughout the Butler community and beyond.

“She put her blood, sweat and tears into that room,” said SEM Dean Shannon Covert, inviting attendees to walk through the space after the emotional ceremony.

Members of Lindsey’s family sat in the front row, listening as friends and colleagues shared heartfelt memories and reflected on her legacy.

“She was a brilliant colleague and instructor,” said Jordnn Cogan, a fellow biology faculty member. “I can’t begin to count all the things I’ve learned from her in and out of the classroom. Her influence will echo in this room. I hope dedicating it is not just a gesture, but a promise.”

Butler Interim President Dr. Jackie Vietti offered words of comfort to the family: “There aren’t words to describe the depth of your sorrow,” she said. “But as it was said at her celebration of life, she remains among the finest of humanity.”

Among the handful of speakers was Shantel Vargas, Fields’ cousin, who traveled from San Diego for the dedication. “My cousin has left a legacy of passion and inspiration,” she said, recounting the story of how her mother—Lindsey’s aunt—first entered the lab after Lindsey’s passing and immediately felt her presence. “Lindsey’s energy was undeniably there. Her emotional fingerprint was there. I hope her emotional fingerprint continues to inspire.”

BCCEA Vice President Cory Teubner captured the sentiment of the day best: “I hope every student or teacher that uses this lab tries to be more like Lindsey.”

The dedication took place a few days after the first Lindsey Carter Fields Memorial Science Scholarship was awarded to Augusta’s Emmary Eagleson at the 2025 Honors and Awards Ceremony on May 16. The scholarship will be awarded annually to an Early College Academy student pursuing a biology or science-related degree.