The James Madison University community in Harrisonburg, Virginia is mourning the heartbreaking and unexpected passing of Ben Delp, a longtime faculty member and dedicated leader who devoted 20 years of service to JMU. His death was announced in a campus-wide email sent on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 4:40 p.m. by Anthony Tongen, Vice President and Chief Research Officer of the Office of Research, Economic Development and Innovation (REDI).
A Distinguished Career at James Madison University
Throughout his career, Delp played a vital role at James Madison University (JMU), serving as the Director of Federal Relations and Communications for REDI. In this role, he represented the university in federal matters, strengthened communications, and worked closely with leaders to advance JMU’s research and development goals. His two decades of employment made him a highly respected and well-loved member of the university family.
In addition to his professional contributions, Delp was deeply committed to service. He led the annual fall food drive for the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, an initiative that helped support local families in need. This tradition reflected his dedication not only to the JMU community but also to the wider Harrisonburg and Shenandoah Valley region.
JMU’s Statement on His Passing
In the email announcing his passing, Tongen expressed the deep sadness felt across the university:
“We mourn the loss of Ben, who has been employed by JMU for 20 years. Ben also led the annual fall food drive for the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.”
The message emphasized that while this news is incredibly difficult, the university is committed to supporting its faculty, staff, and students during this time of grief.
Campus Resources Offered to Students and Staff
To help the community cope with the sudden loss, JMU reminded students and staff of the various mental health and counseling services available on campus. These include:
- JMU Counseling Center (540-568-6552)
- Emergency Assistance Services
- Employee Assistance Program
- JMU Shield
- Madison Cares
- Self-help resources through the Counseling Center
- TimelyCare
The university encouraged individuals to reach out to these services and also support one another during this time of mourning.
Remembering Ben Delp
Colleagues and students alike remember Ben Delp as someone who went beyond his professional duties to make a real difference in people’s lives. His leadership, kindness, and unwavering commitment to service left a lasting mark on both the university and the greater Harrisonburg community.
As tributes begin to emerge, many have highlighted his passion for giving back and his efforts to strengthen the bonds between JMU and the community it serves. His legacy of service, particularly through the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank drive, will continue to inspire future generations of students and faculty.
A Loss Felt Across the JMU Community
The unexpected passing of Ben Delp is not only a loss for James Madison University but for Harrisonburg and the entire Shenandoah Valley. For two decades, he contributed to the academic, cultural, and humanitarian growth of JMU, making him a beloved colleague, mentor, and friend.
The university has asked everyone to keep Ben’s family, friends, and peers in their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time. While funeral arrangements and memorial details have not yet been shared, it is clear that the impact of his work and his character will be remembered for years to come.