Ex-Monmouth University Leader Dies After Fatal Motorcycle Collision in Hunterdon County
A former president of Monmouth University lost his life following a tragic motorcycle accident in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, according to state authorities.
The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon at approximately 3:45 p.m. along Route 519 in Kingwood Township. Officials confirmed that 72-year-old Grey J. Dimenna, a resident of Lambertville, was traveling southbound on his motorcycle when it collided with a pickup truck heading in the opposite direction.
Authorities reported that the impact of the crash threw Dimenna from his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the pickup truck sustained minor injuries and received medical attention. The cause of the crash is still under active investigation by state police.
Dimenna was widely recognized for his long-standing association with Monmouth University. Before serving as the institution’s ninth president from 2017 to 2019, he spent decades contributing to the university as vice president and general counsel. He officially retired from those leadership roles in July 2015 but remained closely connected to the university community.
In addition to his administrative contributions, Dimenna also served on the board of directors for the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music, reflecting his involvement in promoting arts and culture within the academic environment.
University officials and colleagues remembered him not only for his professional achievements but also for his personality. Current university leadership described him as someone known for his humor and the unique energy he brought to campus life. His ability to connect with people and bring lightness to serious roles left a lasting impression on those who worked with him.
According to his obituary, Dimenna carried this same spirit into his personal life. He was known for his love of outdoor activities and creative pursuits, including hiking, motorcycle riding, cycling, and playing the guitar. He also had a strong passion for music, particularly the blues, and enjoyed attending live performances.
Dimenna was also deeply engaged intellectually. He was described as a lifelong learner with a strong interest in history, often reading extensively and even forming a non-fiction book club with close friends. Those who knew him personally recalled his curiosity, warmth, and enthusiasm for life.
He is survived by his wife, daughter, step-daughter, two grandchildren, four siblings, and a large circle of extended family and friends.
The tragic accident has left both the local community and the university mourning the loss of a respected leader whose contributions spanned decades. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash to determine the exact cause.
Sources:
New Jersey State Police
Official obituary records
Monmouth University statements
