Ernest T. Pascarella ’65

Ernie died Jan. 23, 2024, in his hometown of Iowa City.

He came to Princeton from Erie, Pa., and roomed with Bonomo, Diamond, Iacavazzi, Michael, John O’Brien, Pett, and Pizzarello. Ernie was the dominant football lineman for the Princeton Tigers, earning All-Ivy honors and perfecting the art of decimating opponents, then graciously helping them to their feet. His crushing blocks enabled Captain Cosmo to lead the nation in scoring and our Tigers to a glorious undefeated season.

Graduating with honors as a religion major, Ernie joined the Marines, receiving a Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts during the Vietnam War as a platoon leader, rifle-company commander, and first lieutenant with the 1st Marine Division.

Upon returning, he earned a master’s degree from Penn and a Ph.D. in higher education from Syracuse University, embarking on a teaching career at the University of Iowa, where he held the Mary Louise Petersen Chair in Higher Education. He was described as one of the most frequently cited scholars on higher education, his work was cited in five U.S. Supreme Court cases. He also co-authored a groundbreaking book, How College Affects Students.

Ernie is survived by his three children, Andy, Alison, and Emily; seven grandchildren; and his sister, Julie Karsznia.

Ernie was a true giant in many ways, truly personifying Princeton in the nation’s service. Ernie, we will miss you — Cosmo and your teammates.