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Sad News – Loss of a Student

Dear Members of the Monmouth University Community:

It is with deep sadness that I inform you of the death of one of our students, Dennis Andrew Vaccaro. Dennis was a third-year student expecting to complete his computer science degree at the end of the fall 2024 semester. He died on Wednesday, June 14, 2023 as a result of injuries sustained in a tragic motorcycle accident in Ocean Township.

Dennis was one of our student veterans, having served his country as an airborne combat medic in the United States Army. He served for five years, including a tour of duty in Afghanistan, and left the army at the rank of sergeant. Continuing his legacy of service, Dennis’s organ donations will now provide life to countless others.

The University mourns the tragic and untimely death of a member of our community and extends its deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and fellow student veterans at this most difficult time. Flags on campus have been lowered in Dennis’s honor.

As the Monmouth University family mourns Dennis’s passing, support services are available for students, faculty and staff at Counseling and Prevention Services (732-571-7517) or the Office of Student Life at 732-571-3417.

Visitation will be held today, June 19th, 2023 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Damiano Funeral Home in Long Branch. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at 10 a.m. Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Long Branch.

Please take a moment today, in your own way, to think of Dennis and his family.  If you have any further questions or need further information, please contact the Office of Student Life.

Thank you.

Dr. Patrick F. Leahy

President