The University of Utah community mourns the loss of Joy Blatchford, Director of the Research Pre-Award Unit and a cherished colleague, mentor, and friend. Joy passed unexpectedly on November 20. Joy’s passing leaves a profound void in the world of research administration—a field she not only served, but significantly shaped.
What many will remember most about Joy is something less formal but far more rare: her laughter. Joy was known for her irrepressible sense of humor, her capacity to find joy in even the busiest days, and the warmth she brought into every room. Her mirth was a hallmark of her leadership—reminding us that while our work is serious, our relationships with one another are what give that work meaning.
Joy’s sense of humor was also a source of resilience, both for herself and for those around her. Even in challenging times, she modeled how levity can steady us. Earlier this year, when Blatch’s BBQ—a successful vegan barbecue restaurant she and her husband ran out of their home—was decimated in an explosion, Joy remained a beacon of positivity. She approached hardship with the same spirit she brought to her work: practical, optimistic, and deeply human. Joy was both a builder and a rebuilder, reminding us that even in moments of loss, laughter and resolve can carry us forward.
We honor Joy for her legacy of excellence, for the systems she built, and for the countless people she uplifted along the way. Her impact on the University of Utah will endure for years to come, reflected in the strength of the research enterprise she helped cultivate and in the many individuals she inspired.
“Joy was a natural problem solver. When an issue came up she ran straight to it, worked through it, and took responsibility. The example she set for others will have deeply impacted our research community” – Amy Tanner
Joy joined the University of Utah in 2013 as a grants and contracts officer in the Department of Pediatrics, bringing with her a rich background of leadership and service from her work managing the Utah Conservation Corps and the Student Sustainability Office at Utah State University. Her talent, insight, and work ethic quickly distinguished her. Later, her bubbly attitude and deep knowledge advanced her from a Pediatrics department grants and contracts officer to the University-wide administrative leader for research pre-award.
“Joy didn’t just build structure. She built trust. Our research enterprise is stronger because of her.” -Jake Jensen
Throughout her distinguished career, Joy was a champion for research administrators, tirelessly advocating for the people, process improvement, and systems that make discovery possible. She played a pivotal role in building and strengthening the university’s research infrastructure, always working to ensure that faculty, staff, and investigators had the support they needed to pursue their ideas. Her ability to articulate policy with clarity, fairness, and insight set a standard across the institution and earned her deep respect from collaborators in every college and department.
“Her legacy lives not only in the systems she built, but in the people she shaped.” – Erin Rothwell
Our hearts are with Joy’s family, friends, and the many colleagues who loved and admired her. May her memory continue to bring light, laughter, and guidance to us all.
Your gift to the Joy Blatchford Memorial Staff Development Award will support and encourage continuing professional education and training for all university staff.
Click here to donate.
Should donations reach the University of Utah’s minimum endowment threshold of $25,000 – the staff council will create an endowment with donor funds to benefit U of U Staff Development. If the minimum endowment threshold is not met within 6 months (June 15, 2026), the staff council will use these funds for the same purpose but the funds will not be endowed.
