“If there ever comes a day where we can’t be together, keep me in your heart—I’ll stay there forever”

-A.A Milne, Winnie The Pooh

This quote could never be more true than it is today as the Communications & New Media department looks back since the passing of their dear friend and professor, Kevin Fahrman.

Many may think that they never knew Kevin, but the city of Portland will always remember him as the Valentine’s Day Bandit, our anonymous friend who would paint the city of Portland in hearts in the blanket of the night, leaving many puzzled as to how he got so many all over the city without ever being spotted. It’s been a year here at SMCC since his passing, and staff members reminisce on their favorite memories of Kevin as the anniversary of his passing comes full circle. Rachel Guthrie and Kate Sibole, also professors of the CNMS program at SMCC and close friends to Kevin, share sweet stories and joyful photos with Fahrman. Guthrie reminisces on how they met at a small newspaper called Sweet Potato Magazine, composed of five staff members who all remained long-time friends since meeting. Sibole discusses how his legacy will always be remembered, noting that Mrs. Fahrnam donated nearly all of Kevin’s photography equipment to SMCC’s Communications & New Media work-study with students for generations to come. Photography students will be in good hands as they follow their passions with Kevin taking every step alongside them.

Kevin is remembered most for his immaculately loving heart: forever immortalized in Portland’s valentines. Staff from the CNMS program reflect on special times with Kevin, expressing his passions for teaching, love of photography, and overall memorable soul. He is dearly missed and always remembered as educators share his passions with all they encounter.

Photo Courtesy Of Rachel Guthrie