Photonics Media announced the passing of Laura Madden, age 67, on July 31, after a sudden illness. She managed digital ad production in the Photonics Buyers’ Guide and Digital Media department. “It is with great sadness that we share the news of Laura’s passing,” said Tom Laurin, CEO and president of Photonics Media. “She spent over 35 years with us, contributing greatly to the company’s success in several different roles. On behalf of the family, we extend our condolences to Laura’s children, Theresa, Rebecca, and Daniel, and to her grandchildren and many friends.” Laura began her career with the company in 1987 as an administrative assistant. She was promoted three years later to advertising production manager for Photonics Spectra. She eventually assumed responsibility managing advertising production for BioPhotonics and EuroPhotonics magazines. In 2003, she transferred to the Buyers’ Guide and Digital Media department, in time to help produce the 50th anniversary edition of the Buyers’ Guide. Over the next two decades, her work encompassed handling insertions and ads for photonics.com, along with coordinating email campaigns and newsletters. In the last two years, she supported advertising needs for the company’s virtual conferences. “Laura was a gem and a joy to work with,” said Kathleen Alibozek, director of publishing operations. “She learned the complex digital realm very quickly and handled advertising insertions and material for 20 different publications. In any given year, that amounted to a thousand insertions for hundreds of clients.” “Beyond her contributions at work, she was a very sweet person and was always doing things for co-workers and friends in need,” Alibozek added. Born in Pittsfield, Laura was the daughter of the late Robert and Mary Plankey. She attended local schools, graduating from Pittsfield High School in 1973. Outside of work, she was an outstanding gardener and spent time tending to her plants. She was an accomplished baker and cook, and she loved to host gatherings at her home. She married Michael Madden on Feb. 25, 1995. They were together 21 years before his passing on July 8, 2016. A memorial service took place Friday, Aug. 5.