Former Amazon.com chief financial officer and Fresno State graduate Joy Convey died Wednesday Sept. 18, 2013, after she was hit by a van during a bicycle ride in San Mateo County. Ms. Covey was 50 years old.

“We are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Joy Covey. She was among the finest graduates of the Craig School of Business at Fresno State and remained connected to the university through her strong support of international experiences for students,” said Dr. Robert Harper, dean of the Craig School of Business.

After graduating in 1982 with a bachelor’s degree in business from Fresno State, Ms. Covey went on to earn both a master’s in business and a law degree from Harvard University.

She joined Amazon.com in 1996 and played a critical role in helping the online retailer achieve prominence. In 1999, she was named one of the 50 Most Powerful Business Women in America by Fortune magazine.

After leaving Amazon.com she served as president of the Beagle Foundation, a private foundation focused on the environment. She was also on the board of directors of JetBlue Airways and a trustee of the Santa Fe Institute.

“In 2003, we had the honor to celebrate Joy’s many accomplishments when she received the Distinguished Alumna Award, the highest honor given by the Fresno State Alumni Association,” said Harper. “Our heart goes out to her friends, family and colleagues during this difficult time.”

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