Friday, Apr 4, 2014
Dillon was an administrative specialist in the departments of psychology and chemistry
by Kristine A. Brown
It is with deep sadness that Rider University announces the passing of Colleen Dillon, administrative specialist in the departments of psychology and chemistry. Colleen passed away April 3, 2014, at the age of 55.
Colleen was at Rider since 1998, starting at the Conservatory of Music at Westminster Choir College. In 2001 she began providing administrative, clerical and secretarial support to the faculty from all of the departments located in the Science and Technology Center.While at Westminster, Colleen studied classical guitar, as well as taking voice lessons. She was a dance major who studied at the Princeton Ballet and performed both dinner theater and off-Broadway. An avid reader and amateur poet, Colleen was published in several popular publications and even won a country-wide poetry contest. Several of her works have been put to music.“Colleen provided tremendous support to our faculty, staff and students each and every day," says Dr. Alison Thomas-Cottingham, interim chair of the Psychology Department. She will always be remembered for her welcoming smile, warm personality and of course, her never-ending bowl of candy perched on her desk. Colleen loved Rider deeply, and her passion for the University was always evident. We are deeply saddened by her passing, as we have lost a dear friend and colleague.”On behalf of the Rider family, we extend our deepest condolences to Colleen’s family. Arrangements are being handled by Peppler Funeral Home, 122 Crosswicks Street, Bordentown. Friends may call on Monday, April 7 from 7–9 p.m. and Tuesday, April 8, from 9:30–10:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday at 11 a.m. at St. Vincent DePaul Church, 555 Yardville-Allentown Road, Yardville. Interment will be private. Flags on campus will be flown at half-staff in Colleen’s honor, along with that of her colleague Dr. Bruce Burnham, who also passed away this week. The Rider community acknowledges the profound loss experienced within the science departments this week, and we extend our sincere sympathy to all faculty, staff and students at the passing of these two beloved colleagues.Campus memorial services for Colleen and Bruce are being planned. Details will be shared soon.