It is with deep sadness that I write to inform you of the passing of David T. McLaughlin, (Class of 1954 and Tuck 1955), the 14th President of Dartmouth and a valued friend and colleague to many of us in the Dartmouth family. He died this morning while on a fishing trip in Alaska with his sons Bill and Jay and some Dartmouth classmates and friends.

Mr. McLaughlin dedicated so much of his life and considerable energy to Dartmouth and its people. Truly a citizen of the world, he distinguished himself as a student, an athlete, a businessman, a trustee, and ultimately as president. We have lost a good friend of many years. His life was full, and, in the end, too short.

I have extended our condolences to Mrs. McLaughlin, and we are working on arrangements for a service and a full obituary to recognize his many contributions. We will share that information as soon as possible. Meanwhile, I know you join me in having Judy McLaughlin and the McLaughlin family in your thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

James Wright

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PETE BARKER:

Dave was with the '54 Fishing Team someplace in the boondocks of Alaska. The "Team" includes people like Dick Page, Bob Levine, Jim Adams, Dick Lewis, Shelly Woolf and several others. Dave's sons were with the group. One of his sons reported that Dave had been snoring during the night - I don't know whether they were camping out or inside. In the morning, it was discovered that Dave had died during the night - peacefully, I assume, among friends, pursuing an activity he loved. Those who attended the 50th reunion had the opportunity to hear Dave speak about the importance of maintaining civility in interpersonal relationships - even with those with whom you disagree.