Stonehill College and the surrounding Brockton and Easton communities are mourning the death of Rochelle Ryan, the longtime Chief of Campus Police whose career was defined by service, leadership and a deep commitment to the people she protected. Stonehill College announced her death on Friday, October 2, 2026, prompting an outpouring of sadness from colleagues, students, alumni and friends. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Ryan had devoted more than two decades of her professional life to Stonehill College. She joined the Stonehill College Police Department in 2002 after beginning her law-enforcement career with the Weymouth Police Department, where she served for six years. Over the years, she advanced through the ranks of patrol officer, sergeant, staff sergeant and lieutenant before becoming Chief of Campus Police.
In 2021, Ryan became Chief of Campus Police, making history as the first woman to hold the position at Stonehill. She continued leading a department of more than 20 people while remaining closely connected to the college community. Stonehill described her leadership as being marked by compassion and respect, qualities that shaped the way she approached campus safety and her relationships with students, faculty and staff.
Ryan was also a proud Stonehill alumna. While continuing her full-time law-enforcement duties, she earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the college in 2018. Her journey from student to campus police chief reflected both her long-standing connection to Stonehill and the dedication she brought to a career centered on serving others.
Away from her professional responsibilities, Ryan was remembered as a woman deeply connected to her family, faith and community. Stonehill’s 2021 profile described her as a wife, mother of three and grandmother of two. She spoke at the time about the importance of the support she received from her family, church and friends throughout her life and career.
For the many people who encountered Rochelle Ryan during her years at Stonehill, her legacy will extend beyond the title of police chief. She was a mentor, protector, colleague, alumna and familiar presence on campus whose work was closely tied to the wellbeing of others. Her commitment to service touched generations of students and members of the college community.
As Stonehill College mourns, Ryan’s life is being remembered through the values she demonstrated throughout her career: service, compassion, integrity and respect for others. Her passing is a profound loss for her family and for the community she served for so many years.
