UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND MOURNS THE LOSS OF MAUREEN McDERMOTT – Beloved Interim Director, Student Advocate, and Devoted Colleague Passes Away After Four Decades of Service; Legacy of Compassion and Dedication Inspires Community
The University of Rhode Island (URI) community is grieving the sudden and tragic loss of Maureen McDermott, Interim Director of Student Involvement and Memorial Union, who passed away on Friday, November 15, after a pedestrian-vehicle accident on the Kingston Campus earlier this month.
Maureen’s passing has sent shockwaves throughout the university, where she spent over four decades dedicating her life to supporting students, faculty, and staff. Her tireless commitment, unwavering enthusiasm, and unrelenting passion for the URI community have left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals.
As a champion of student involvement, Maureen worked closely with over 100 campus organizations, providing guidance, mentorship, and advocacy. Her impact extends far beyond her formal roles, as she was a trusted confidante, mentor, and friend to generations of students, faculty, and staff.
Maureen’s love for URI was matched only by her devotion to her family. She and her husband, Paul, were proud parents of three URI alumni – Ryan, Kevin, and Michael. Her family was always at the forefront of her mind, and she often expressed gratitude for the support and love they brought to her life.
The URI community will deeply miss Maureen’s radiant smile, her infectious enthusiasm, and her unwavering commitment to the students and faculty she affectionately called her “Rhody Family.” Her legacy will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of students, faculty, and staff.
As the university community grapples with this immense loss, we offer our heartfelt condolences to Maureen’s family, friends, and colleagues. Her family will announce funeral plans and obituary details at a later date.
