If you ever walked around Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine’s admitting or radiology clinics and heard someone say, “we can do it,” there’s a good chance that was Sue Opsitnick.
A radiology technician who dedicated nearly two decades to Case Western Reserve University, Opsitnick was known for her positive spirit and her unwavering commitment to her colleagues and students.
Now, the university community is mourning the loss of Opsitnick, who died Oct. 9. She was 64.
Opsitnick was a certified dental assistant who had extensive experience in oral radiology. Her job involved organizing student rotations, assisting with teaching radiology, recording competency evaluations, and guiding patients in their initial visit to the clinic, among other duties. Earlier in her career, she was involved in planning several public health events, such as Give Kids a Smile and joint research programs with the nursing school.
Her supervisor, Ali Syed, described her as the “most dedicated employee” he’s ever encountered. Despite facing health challenges, Opsitnick rarely missed work, and she consistently maintained a supportive and encouraging demeanor.
“She was known for her work ethic—I never heard her say ‘no’ to work,” said Syed, associate professor in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences. “When we held the state board exams, she used to stay late and come early to help the students take the exam.”
Opsitnick’s devotion to her job was noticed by everyone she worked with—including professor and department chair Andres Pinto, who was her colleague for 12 years. He said she was always the first person on the clinic floor, and she’d even come in on weekends for special projects or rotations.
“To me, she was the personification of service, with humility, persistence, and unabated dedication to her mission in our department and school,” Pinto added. “She made lives much better for many of us.”
Central to achieving this was her ability to make people feel at ease through her genuine kindness and care, her colleagues said.
“She brought warmth and a sense of calm to our hectic days,” Syed explained. “Sue has left a lasting mark on our community, and her presence will be sorely missed.”
Outside of work, Opsitnick enjoyed spending quality time with her family and being outdoors, including fishing on Lake Erie.
Funeral services will take place Thursday, Oct. 17, from 4 to 7 p.m. at A. Ripepi & Sons Funeral Home, located at 18149 Bagley Road in Middleburg Heights. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow Friday, Oct. 18, at 10 a.m. at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church. More details are available in Opsitnick’s formal obituary.
Students who would like support during this time are encouraged to contact University Health and Counseling Services at 216.368.5872. This line is staffed by a counselor 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Faculty and staff can access counseling at any time by calling IMPACT Solutions at 1.800.227.6007.