Former FDU Board Chair Ed Hennessy Passes Away

May 11, 2026 — Fairleigh Dickinson University today announced the news of the passing on May 8 of Trustee Chair Emeritus Edward L. Hennessy, Jr., retired chairman and CEO of the aerospace, automotive and engineering giant Allied Signal, at the age of 98.

Edward L. Hennessy, Jr.

In a note to the University community, President Michael Avaltroni said, “We will greatly miss this extraordinary man, but we will continue to honor his legacy and his many contributions to the history of FDU. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family during this difficult time.”

Hennessy graduated from FDU’s Rutherford Campus in 1955 with a BS in business and then began an incredibly successful career. He joined Allied Signal in 1979 and was appointed to its Board of Directors. His international career led him to live in Belgium; England; West Hartford, Conn.; and Port Clyde, Me., eventually settling in New Vernon, N.J., and Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. In a 20-year tenure at Allied Signal, he presided over the company through a series of major acquisitions and mergers leading it to become one of the nation’s leading technology firms.

He joined the FDU Board of Trustees in 1978 and went on to serve for 16 years including 11 as chairman. In addition to his leadership and insights as a trustee, he was a generous benefactor to the institution he loved. He chaired the University’s first comprehensive capital campaign, Partners in Education, and later chaired the Challenge 90s Campaign. He and his wife, Ruth, also established the Edward L. Hennessy, Jr. and Ruth S. Hennessy Foundation Scholarship fund at FDU.

In recognition of his continued philanthropy and support of the University, the iconic Vanderbilt-Twombly mansion, the jewel of the Florham Campus, now bears his name. His support also made possible the new Elizabeth Ruth Hennessy Athletic Field, named for his daughter. The ribbon was cut in 2021 on this multisport field surrounded by an 8-lane, NCAA compliant track and throwing areas to allow the addition of track and field to the Florham Campus’s athletic program.

In 1984, he received an honorary doctor of laws degree from FDU and in 1989 he was honored as a member of The PINNACLE’s inaugural class of alumni who have “reached the highest point of development and achievement.” The following year he was awarded the inaugural Charter Day award for his dedication as a trustee and chairman of the board.

His support of education also includes the founding and guidance of the Tri-County Scholarship fund of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Paterson. The organization supports disadvantaged elementary and secondary school students, providing an education in the Catholic school system. In recognition of his involvement with the organization, Pope John Paul II bestowed upon him the highest honor of the Knighthood of St. Gregory the Great.

He is predeceased by his wife of 65 years, Ruth. He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth; a son, Michael; two grandchildren and several nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews as well as great grand-nieces and nephews.

Services are as follows: Viewing is Tuesday, May 19, from 3 pm to 7 pm at Christ the King Church, New Vernon. Mass is Wednesday, May 20, at 10:30 am, at Christ the King Church.