Maria Tereza Leopardi dedicated her life to caregiving, exemplifying a humanistic career marked by ethics and love for others. She earned a doctorate in nursing science and became nationally recognized for her research on care methods within the nursing profession. During her time at the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), she served as the coordinator of the Graduate Program in Nursing and established the Práxis Laboratory, which focused on research related to work, ethics, health, and nursing, influencing public policies and care models throughout Brazil.

Her contributions were acknowledged by UFSC, which highlighted how she established critical and theoretical thinking within the nursing profession, paving the way for advancing Brazilian nursing practice. Leopardi's commitment to excellence, ethics, and the scientific development of nursing left a significant mark on the field. Her role in the Regional Nursing Council of Santa Catarina (Coren/SC) exemplified her dedication to the profession and her influence on the education and practice of nursing in Brazil's health care landscape.

The note of condolence released by the university emphasizes her legacy and the impact of her work, describing her academic journey as one based on excellence and a commitment to social responsibility. Leopardi's passing is felt deeply within the nursing community, where her innovative approaches and dedicated research will be remembered as foundational to the profession's growth and recognition in Brazil.