LOCH SHELDRAKE – Dr. Mamie Howard-Golladay, president of SUNY Sullivan, received word Tuesday afternoon (Aug. 31) that Joseph Isadore, dean of enrollment management and student development services, passed away suddenly. The Wappinger’s Falls resident was 39 years old.
Dean Isadore had been with the college since September 2008. Before coming to SUNY Sullivan, he served as the associate dean of student affairs at Florida Atlantic University where he developed new programs and services for the more than 3,000 students attending the Jupiter and Port St. Lucie campuses. He earned a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in public management from Florida Atlantic University.
Dr. Howard-Golladay called faculty and administrators together and personally delivered the tragic news to a stunned audience. Although familiar to all at the college, with the start of a new academic year Dean Isadore’s presence was more visible.
“The SUNY Sullivan Community is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of colleague and friend, Dean Isadore,” Dr. Howard-Golladay, said. “His high energy and enthusiasm for the work we all do at the college was evidenced on a daily basis. He was totally dedicated to our students.
“He will be missed and not only for the good work he did for the college, but also because he was a member of our college family. Our family is in mourning now, but we will endeavor to keep Dean Isadore’s spirit alive by continuing to mentor our students in a way that would make him proud.
“Our sincerest condolences go out to Dean Isadore’s family at this sad time.”
As word reached the student body, the college’s counselors began meeting with students, many of whom had close ties with Mr. Isadore. The counselors were also available to faculty and staff.
At this time the college does not have any definitive cause of death. Mrs. Isadore told the college that an autopsy will be performed. In addition to his wife, Dean Isadore is survived by two sons.
The college is planning a memorial service on campus. The date and time will be announced once plans are made.
