Dear Faculty and Staff:
It is with profound sadness that I share the devastating news of the unexpected passing of Kent E. Carpenter, Ph.D., a longtime member of the Old Dominion University faculty in the College of Sciences’ Department of Biological Sciences with internationally recognized work advancing marine conservation science and inspiring generations of students, as well as collaborators and researchers. Dr. Carpenter’s tragic passing occurred while he was on an extended research assignment in the Philippines as he prepared for his upcoming retirement. There is an ongoing investigation regarding his death, which was the direct result of a violent act. As such, the University does not have additional details to share about the incident as we join together in mourning this tremendous loss and extending our heartfelt support to Dr. Carpenter's family, friends, students, and colleagues.
Dr. Carpenter devoted three decades to Old Dominion University after joining the faculty in 1996, earning recognition as an Eminent Scholar and one of the University's most distinguished researchers. His work in marine biodiversity, conservation biology, and the assessment of global marine species helped shape conservation efforts around the globe. His research focused extensively on the Philippines and the Coral Triangle, where he spent many years collaborating with international partners to better understand and protect one of the world's richest marine ecosystems.
Throughout Dr. Carpenter’s distinguished career, he earned numerous honors recognizing his excellence in teaching, research, and service, including the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia’s Outstanding Faculty Award and Old Dominion University's Faculty Research Award. His impact extends far beyond the classroom through his mentorship of students, collaborations with colleagues, and enduring contributions to marine science and conservation. He dedicated his career to expanding our understanding of the world's bodies of water and protecting some of its most vulnerable ecosystems. His scholarship and passion impacted and inspired many individuals locally, nationally, and internationally.
We recognize that many members of our campus community had close professional and personal relationships with Dr. Carpenter, and this loss is deeply felt. Counseling and support resources are available. Students seeking support can contact the Office of Counseling Services at 757-683-4401 (press one to schedule an appointment or press two to speak with a counselor 24/7) or the Dean of Students at oducares@odu.edu. Faculty and staff seeking support can contact the Anthem Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at 1-800-865-1044 (available 24/7) for confidential counseling and resources. Additionally, employee in-person assistance and support will be available this Wednesday (July 15, 2026) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Webb Student Center’s Mane Hub Conference Room. Impacted individuals are encouraged to utilize these resources, which can be very helpful in times of grief and tragedy.
On behalf of the University, I extend my deepest condolences to Dr. Carpenter's family, friends, colleagues, former and current students, and research collaborators around the world. As we navigate the loss of a long-serving Monarch and world-renowned researcher, let us individually remember his professional contributions and personal endeavors as we collectively honor the legacy that he leaves behind.
With Deepest Condolences,
Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
President