Frances Montaño
Birthday: 1989
In Loving Memory of Frances Maria Montaño
1989 – 2025
Frances Maria Montaño was a proud alumna of the University of Arizona, earning her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish with an emphasis in Healthcare and Legal Translation & Interpretation in December 2015. Her passion for language and service led her to work as a Spanish/English interpreter after graduation, but in February 2017, Frances returned to her beloved alma mater to serve students. Frances first worked as an Enrollment Counselor with Arizona Online, but her dedication and talent soon brought her to the main campus, where in October 2018, she became an academic advisor in the College of Education—a role she deeply cherished and truly excelled in. Over the course of 6.5 years, Frances became an award-winning advisor, known for her unwavering commitment to students and her essential contributions to an outstanding advising team.
While working full-time, Frances pursued and completed a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Community College/Higher Education at Northern Arizona University, further demonstrating her passion for higher education and student success.
Tragically, Frances passed away on May 2, 2025, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. She was only 35 years old. She is survived by her parents, Martha and Adan Montaño, and her sister, Xochilt.
Frances' passing has left a profound void in our college and across the university and in the hearts of the many students, colleagues, and friends who knew and loved her. She was a mentor, a friend, and a guiding light—known for her caring demeanor, quick wit, and a radiant smile that could light up any room. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched.
Beyond her official roles, Frances brought warmth, laughter, and a sense of belonging to all who had the privilege of working with her. Her dedication, joy, and humanity will not be forgotten. Frances was truly one of a kind. Frances will be deeply missed, and forever remembered.
The following quotes from Frances’ students show the depth of her impact on them:
“You believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself. In the moments I felt like giving up, your support and kindness always gave me hope.”
“My heart is hurting knowing that you are gone. You will always be my biggest hero in advising, and I will carry your kindness and joyous nature forward with me wherever I go.”
“I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you’ve done for me over the past four years. Your constant support, even during my most difficult days, made a tremendous difference in my life and my academic journey. No matter what was going on, you always made time for me, and I’ll never forget that. You have been more than just an academic advisor. You’ve been a mentor, a guide, and a source of steady encouragement. Your belief in me gave me the confidence to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. Gracias a Frances por todo, y siempre voy a recordar su apoyo.”
“He visto tantos estudiantes compartir cosas hermosas sobre el impacto de Frances en sus vidas. Ella me enseñó lo que es actuar y guiar del corazón. Llevo su ejemplo conmigo siempre.”
“Volver a mi carrera académica no fue fácil pero Frances hizo que fuera fácil y que al mismo tiempo lo disfrutara. Me brindó su apoyo, guianza y sabiduría. Estoy agradecida por haber tenido la dicha de conocerla y que haya sido un sistema de apoyo hasta el final de mi carrera como mi consejera. Ella está siempre en mis recuerdos y oraciones.”
We believe Frances would deeply appreciate this paver in the Women’s Plaza of Honor as a lasting symbol of her legacy as a true Wildcat for Life. Her memory will continue to inspire through this tribute, allowing others to learn about her remarkable story and the impact she made. We hope her example will encourage future generations to make a positive difference in their communities, just as Frances did for ours.