HAMBURG, N.Y. - Hilbert College Athletics mourns the passing of Sister Edmunette Paczesny, FSSJ, Ph.D., who entered eternal life at the age of 92 on December 3, 2025.
 
Sister Edmunette served as President of Hilbert College from 1974 to 2006, a remarkable 32-year tenure that made her one of the longest-serving college presidents in the nation at the time. Her visionary leadership transformed Hilbert from a two-year institution into a thriving four-year college, expanding academic programs, facilities, and opportunities for generations of students.
 
Under Sister Edmunette's guidance, Hilbert experienced unprecedented growth, including the construction of Franciscan Hall, new student housing, and significant campus enhancements. She championed academic excellence while remaining deeply committed to the Franciscan values that define Hilbert's mission.
 
Sister Edmunette was also a passionate supporter of Hilbert College Athletics. Her dedication to student-athletes was recognized when she was inducted into the Hilbert Athletics Hall of Fame in 2006 for Meritorious Service. She believed athletics played a vital role in shaping well-rounded students and fostering community spirit. Her leadership helped lay the foundation for expanded athletic programs and facilities, ensuring that sports became an integral part of campus life.
 
Reflection on Sister Edmunette from Rob deGrandpre, Associate Athletic Director:
"I'm forever grateful to Sister Edmunette for taking a chance on me in the fall of 2002 when she hired me as the next men's basketball coach at Hilbert College. She was a tremendous supporter to our student-athletes and coaches, and I often told her at alumni gatherings that while Loyola University (Chicago) has Sister Jean watching over the Ramblers, we have Sister Edmunette watching over the Hawks."
 
Reflection on Sister Edmunette from Kara Rehbaum, Associate Athletic Director:
"By the time I arrived on campus in the summer of 2004, Sister Edmunette was already a legend at Hilbert College. From her early teaching days to her years serving as the College's second president, she was deeply involved in campus life, and most students knew her personally. She sat in the bleachers with students and cheered loudly for her Hawks. Sister Edmunette was an early advocate for equal opportunities for female athletes, and both former coaches and athletes understood her unwavering commitment to Hilbert College Athletics."
 
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sister Edmunette was a beloved mentor, role model, and friend to countless students, alumni, faculty, and staff. Her legacy of faith, service, and commitment to education will forever remain a cornerstone of Hilbert College.

A private funeral mass and burial will be held for Sister Edmunette. The Hilbert community will gather in the coming months to remember and celebrate Sister Edmunette's life and legacy.

Details on a memorial mass and campus reflection will be announced when they are available.