Maureen McDermott’s tragic passing on the night of Thursday, November 7th, 2024, marks a profound loss for her family, friends, and the many communities she served over the years.
Maureen, who was involved in a devastating accident on Wednesday, November 6th, when she was struck by a car while crossing the street on the University of Rhode Island campus, passed away from her injuries shortly after.
This sudden and heartbreaking event has left those who knew and worked with her reeling from the loss of a passionate, caring, and dedicated individual whose impact was felt far beyond her immediate family.
Maureen’s devotion to service and leadership began in the early 1980s, when she first volunteered with the New England Region. Over the years, her commitment to the organization grew, and she became a central figure in the regional community.
She served in multiple capacities, including as the Regional Conference Chairperson and Regional Coordinator, where she was instrumental in organizing events, supporting volunteers, and creating spaces for professional development.
Her work in these roles helped countless individuals in the region connect, grow, and build relationships that would last a lifetime.
Her contributions were not limited to the New England Region, however. Maureen’s commitment to serving her profession reached a national level when she was appointed to the National Board of Directors.
In this capacity, she contributed her wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion for higher education and student affairs. Her leadership on the national stage helped shape policies and initiatives that improved the landscape for students and professionals across the country.
Maureen was a tireless advocate for creating inclusive, supportive environments in higher education, and her work on the Board was a natural extension of her lifelong dedication to student success.
Even as her professional roles expanded, Maureen never lost sight of her passion for mentoring the next generation. At the University of Rhode Island, where she worked in Student Life, she continued to offer guidance and support to young professionals, helping them navigate their careers in student affairs.
Maureen was known for her kindness, wisdom, and ability to inspire others to reach their full potential. She provided not only advice but also a model of the type of leader she believed students and professionals could be—compassionate, committed, and community-minded.
Those who knew Maureen often spoke of her warmth, generosity, and humility. She had an incredible ability to connect with people, whether they were seasoned professionals or students just starting their careers.
Her legacy is one of mentorship, advocacy, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of those around her. Maureen was more than a colleague or a leader; she was a friend, a mentor, and a beacon of light for so many. Her influence will undoubtedly be felt for years to come, as her work continues to inspire and guide those who had the privilege of working with her.
In this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Maureen’s beloved family—her husband, Paul, their three sons, Ryan, Michael, and Kevin, as well as the extended McDermott family.
We also offer our deepest condolences to the countless individuals whose lives were touched by Maureen’s dedication to her work and her community. The void left by her passing will be felt deeply, but we can take solace in the knowledge that Maureen’s impact will endure through the work she did and the lives she touched.
As we mourn her loss, we are reminded of the importance of community, service, and the ways in which one individual can profoundly shape the lives of so many.
Maureen McDermott’s legacy will live on in the many students, colleagues, and friends she mentored, inspired, and helped along the way. Her dedication to the betterment of others will continue to resonate in the work that she leaves behind.
