In Memoriam: Meredith Sullivan Chapman

Meredith Chapman, assistant vice president of marketing and creative services at Villanova University, was shot and killed on April 23 as she entered her home in Radnor Township, Pennsylvania. She was 33 years old.

According to police, Chapman was shot by Jennair Gerardot, who then turned the gun on herself and committed suicide. Both women were separated from their husbands and Gerardot believed Chapman was in a romantic relationship with her husband.

Chapman joined the staff at Villanova University this past March. Previously, she was director of digital communications at the University of Delaware.

Chapman held a bachelor’s degree in communication and a master’s degree in education from the University of Delaware. She began her career as a television reporter and then worked as communications manager for U.S. Representative Mike Castle of Delaware.

In 2010, Chapman became senior news editor at the University of Delaware. She also served as an adjunct faculty member teaching undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education courses in marketing and social media. In 2016, Chapman ran unsuccessfully for the Delaware State Senate.