October 31, 2016
Members of the extended community at Villanova University are mourning the death of a student who passed away unexpectedly Sunday night in his dorm room.
In an email sent out Monday, Vice President for Student Life Fr. John Stack announced that sophomore John J. Flanagan, a College of Liberal Arts major and a native of Staten Island, New York, was found dead in his residence hall.
"There are no signs of foul play and we are fully cooperating with local authorities as they further investigate this tragic incident," Stack said. "This is a devastating loss to our community, and our hearts go out to John’s family and friends."
Members of the University Counseling Center and Campus Ministry have been made available for anyone who is grieving and wishes to talk with someone. Counseling Center staff can be reached at 610-519-4050 or students can stop by in person to make an appointment. Campus Ministry in St. Rita’s Hall is also available to speak with students and can be reached at 610-519-4080.
Information on funeral arrangements will be released as it becomes available.
"We want to extend our deepest sympathy to John’s family and friends on this heartbreaking loss," Stack said. "We ask that you keep his family and all those who knew him in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time."