The Central University «Marta Abreu» of Las Villas (UCLV) announced this Sunday the passing of M. Sc. Gonzalo Florentino Figueroa Linares, assistant professor at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and a key figure in the academic history of that institution for having founded the Biology program at UCLV.
Through its social media channels, the university expressed its sorrow at "the passing of M. Sc. Gonzalo Florentino Figueroa Linares, assistant professor at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences - UCLV and founder of the Biology program at this institution of higher education."
Figueroa Linares dedicated more than four decades to university teaching, during which, according to the institution itself, “he earned the respect of his students and colleagues for his work as an educator and researcher.”
In addition to his activities in the classroom and in research, he took on responsibilities as a year coordinator and mentor teacher, roles that kept him in direct contact with successive generations of students.
Throughout his career, he accumulated several awards and decorations. Among them is the Distinction for Cuban Education, an award established by Decree-Law No. 53 on March 27, 1982, which is granted to those who have excelled for their merits in the Cuban educational system.
The news generated a widespread wave of condolences on digital platforms. Former students, colleagues, and friends all highlighted his human and professional qualities. One internet user wrote: "I am so sorry, an extraordinary professor and a professional through and through. Imagine he was my teacher in high school, and I remember his classes perfectly." Another recalled: "Rest in peace, my great teacher and friend. What a sad piece of news, an exceptional person. Floro, a hug to heaven; you left an indelible mark and many beautiful memories for those of us who had the fortune of knowing you."
Several comments revealed that his pedagogical influence extended beyond the university. "I am very sorry; he was a vocational teacher in his early days," wrote one person, while another noted, "Excellent teacher! I remember him fondly."
The UCLV has gone through a year marked by losses among its faculty. So far in 2026, the institution has also mourned the passing of Dr. C. Alina Hereira Díaz, Dr. C. Carlos Alberto de León Benítez —announced on September 4— and emeritus professor Alberto Casiano Averhoff Casamayor, in February.
Upon announcing the news, the university expressed its desire that "our deepest condolences reach their family, friends, and colleagues."
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