Dr. McNelis, age 91, passed comfortably on August 13 with his loving wife, Romaine, and his son, John, by his side after a wonderful life of higher education leadership, service to others, and commitment and care for family. Don was married to Romaine — our original First Lady — for 54 years and they loved living on their sprawling farm in Markham, Virginia. The joy of their lives has always been their two beautiful granddaughters, Avery and Megan, and spending time with friends and family.

A native of Plymouth, PA, Dr. McNelis was a professor of Education at Lock Haven State College in PA and Chairperson of the Division of Professional Studies at the College of Steubenville in Ohio prior to coming to STAC. He brought with him extensive experience in teaching and administration. His tenure at the College proved him to be a conscientious leader, as well as a caring and generous human being. Highlights of Dr. McNelis’ presidency include increasing student enrollment, launching new academic programs, and expanding the campus with new buildings including the McNelis Commons.

Dr. McNelis was heartened when the College received accolades and once shared the following words:

“We discovered the operative formula — if we provide a quality education at an affordable cost in a caring, embracing environment on a beautiful, state-of-the-art campus, the students will seek us out!”

These words are more true now than ever thanks to the tremendous vision of our predecessor and mentor, Dr. McNelis. Together, the three of us led the College for the past 50 years guided by this philosophy. We have been blessed to follow in the footsteps of a great leader who built the foundations of the College … and a great man who exemplified our enduring Mission of care and service to students. 

Don and Romaine created a scholarship fund many years ago to support St. Thomas Aquinas College students to realize their dreams of a college education. In memory of Don, please consider donating to the Donald and Romaine McNelis Scholarship Fund:

President Ken Daly and President Emerita Margaret Fitzpatrick

If you wish to make a donation by check, please make your check payable to St. Thomas Aquinas College and write in the memo section: “Dr. Donald T. McNelis”. Please send to:
St. Thomas Aquinas College
ATTN: Institutional Advancement Office.
125 Route 340
Sparkill, NY  10976