Dear University community,
It is with great sadness that I write to you about the untimely passing on Monday of Dr. Matthew Powell, who served the University in the Office of University Advancement as its Director of Advancement for the School of Theology and Religious Studies.
Matthew joined the University this past June after having spent more than a quarter century working to support organizations that provide paths to human flourishing. A man of profound faith and deep humility, he was a seasoned educator and dynamic administrator who enjoyed building partnerships with people and organizations to pass on a better world to the next generation.
Matthew reveled in working for the University and sincerely appreciated the opportunity to represent it as a compassionate advocate for the School of Theology and Religious Studies. University colleagues and alumni of the School who interacted with him quickly encountered his wit, profound character, determined work ethic, and highly infectious smile.
Despite his brief tenure, Matthew made a meaningful mark as a trusted partner with Dean Joseph Capizzi in securing valuable funding in support of the Institute for the Study of Eastern Christianity and the planned Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley Endowed Chair for the Study of Hispanic Catholics in America.
Dean Capizzi said of him, “In the short time I was able to work with Matthew, I was struck the most by his affable personality and his natural ability to connect so readily and effectively with our faculty, their work, and the importance of the School’s essential mission.”
We are grateful for Matthew’s life and we extend our condolences to his young son, Horatio, whom he frequently talked about and deeply adored, as well as his wider family. Information about funeral services is forthcoming.
Please join me in praying for the repose of Matthew’s soul. May he rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Peter Kilpatrick
President