UMass Boston

It has saddened us to learn of the passing of the following members of the UMass Boston community since our last issue.

Professor Emerita Jacqueline Mabel Fawcett

Professor Emerita of Nursing and an internationally renowned nurse scholar, theorist, educator, and editor, Jacqueline “Jacqui” Fawcett died March 22, 2026, in Waldoboro, Maine. Jacqui earned her bachelor’s degree from Boston University and her master’s and PhD from New York University, launching a career in nursing research and education that spanned more than 45 years. She joined UMass Boston in 1999 after distinguished service at the Universities of Pennsylvania and Connecticut, retiring in 2025. Her work helped shape modern nursing theory and continues to guide evidence-based, compassionate care worldwide. Her legacy includes Nursology.net, a widely referenced repository of global nursing knowledge that she co-founded in 2017. At UMass Boston, she held key leadership roles and was celebrated for her rigorous scholarship and generous mentorship.  Remembered for her warmth and vision, she often signed her messages simply, “Onward!”

Margaret Byers Wood

Margaret “Peggy” Wood lived a full and vibrant life, devoted to family, learning, and service. She passed away on March 4, 2026, at age 94. Born in Milton, Massachusetts, she was the youngest of four children. She excelled at Milton Academy and spent summers in Little Compton, Rhode Island, where she developed a love of sailing and tennis. Peggy began her higher education at Radcliffe College and later earned her undergraduate degree from George Washington University and a master’s in history from Harvard. In 1952, she married Robert C. Wood, who served as the president of the UMass System from 1970 to 1977 and professor of political science at UMass Boston from 1981 to 1983. Together they built lives rooted in education and public service. A teacher and advocate, Peggy led community initiatives and taught history in Lincoln, Massachusetts, later working in teacher education at Wesleyan University and beyond. Known for her warmth, mentorship, and generosity, she welcomed many into her home. She is survived by her three children, grandchildren, and extended family.

Joseph Alan Mack ’69

Joseph A. Mack of New Boston, New Hampshire, passed away on December 13, 2025, at the age of 78. Joseph grew up in Hull, Massachusetts, and earned degrees from UMass Boston and Tufts Medical School. His 50-year career in medicine spanned multiple states and specialties. He first practiced as an emergency room physician, later had his own internal medicine practice, and then, after returning to school, practiced as a radiologist into his 70s. Joseph was also a dedicated sports fan passionate about the Boston Celtics, Red Sox, Bruins, and New England Patriots. He loved boating, seafood, road trips, ice cream, and time spent with family, friends, colleagues, and patients. He was a cherished friend to many along the way.