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January 12, 2021

To the William Paterson Community:

It is with great sadness that I write to inform you that we recently learned of the passing of Languages and Cultures graduate student and longtime educator Frank Carchia of Budd Lake, N.J. Faculty members say Frank embodied the ideal of a lifelong learner and describe him as a remarkable student with a great deal of passion and enthusiasm for the Spanish language and the multiple Hispanic cultures. With his active curiosity, they say, Frank always searched for unique answers to both simple and complex questions and issues. 
 
A native of Newton, N.J., Frank was a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Centenary College in Hackettstown, who went on to teach English and Spanish in middle school and high school. As a seasoned educator, Frank inspired and supported his fellow students, patiently answering their questions and always offering them guidance and positive affirmation.
 
Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and everyone in Frank’s life, both in the William Paterson community and beyond. We will honor Frank’s memory by adding a leaf with his name to our Student Memorial Tree, located in the Chang Library, when we are able to gather again for a proper ceremony. A funeral will be held tomorrow, Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 10 a.m. at the Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 24 Halsted Street, Newton, N.J. Arrangements and online condolences are being handled by the Iliff-Ruggiero Funeral Home, and can be found at www.iliff-ruggierofuneralhome.com.
 
The death of a member of our community is always tragic, and this is the second time in as many weeks that I have had to inform our community of such a loss. It is especially difficult in these times, when our ability to be together to support and comfort each other is so limited. Loss impacts people in different ways, and some may need additional support. I want to again remind you of some of the services available to the William Paterson community, should you wish to utilize them or refer others. Students may contact the Counseling, Health and Wellness Center at 973-720-2257 to be connected with a counselor. Our Employee Assistance Program is available to faculty and staff. Those who wish to learn more about this program may visit the EAP website or call 1-800-242-7371.
 
As we head into a new year and a new semester, let us give thanks for the strength of our University community, which can help comfort us at a difficult time like this.
 
Sincerely,
  
Richard J. Helldobler, PhD
President