Former UND Vice President of Academic Affairs dies tragically

The University of North Dakota says its former provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Tom DiLorenzo, has died.

DiLorenzo and his wife, Suzanne Austin, were targeted in an attempted robbery in Charleston, South Carolina, according to the University of North Dakota. Austin had recently been named provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs at Charleston’s College of Charleston. During the robbery attempt, DiLorenzo was shot and later died at the hospital. Austin was not injured in the incident, which happened earlier today (Friday).

DiLorenzo retired from UND on June 1 after serving the University for the past seven years.

“With his superhuman work ethic, Tom gave his heart and soul to the University up until his very last day at UND,” said UND President Andy Armacost. “He led the University’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He initiated programs that strengthened ties between UND and the Grand Forks community. And to improve the academic experience for UND students, he implemented programs that have resulted in better graduation and retention rates. Tom did all that was asked of him and then more. It was the kind of person he was.”

North Dakota University System Chancellor Mark Hagerott called DiLorenzo a “key leader” at UND.

“We offer our condolences to Suzanne and the rest of the DiLorenzo family at this very tragic time,” He said in a statement Friday evening. “His sudden death leaves us to mourn his loss as well as have deep respect and reverence for his service to his campus community.”