Jo-Ann Alessandrini Obituary

I knew Jo-Ann initially through the USF College of Engineering, where I was at the USF Center for Urban Transportation Research. Subsequently I knew her through our tie to WPI where I graduated in 1969. Our last personal interaction was lunch at the Worcester Art Museum. She was a super person who made significant contributions to both USF and WPI. RIP Jo-Ann.

I remember my Aunt Jo-Ann as a fun-loving, joke telling, music loving, fiercely loving bundle of Joy! She is greatly missed!

I worked at WPI when Jo- Ann was a V.P. Of Advancement department. Such a nice person . I was so devastated to hear the news. Rest I Peace, Jo-Ann

Cynthia Gillespie

God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Just so glad we were able to do lunch this summer.... it was great seeing you all. Thinking of you!! Love Bev

And 2016 I interviewed with Jo-Ann for the position as her assistant at the USF Health Foundation. Instead, she offered me the job of stewardship officer, which I gladly accepted. I was so grateful that she gave me that chance.

Jo-Ann and I used to get into the office earlier than everyone else and it wasn´t unusual for her to stop at my door and chat. We found we had a lot of views in common and we shared a similar sense of humor. I treasure those moments with her.

My heart goes out to her family. She was a truly special person.

JoAnn was my best friend in high school. We had so many fun times together. Many adventures with her driving.
I was her maid of honor and she was mine.
I am so glad that we continued to stay in touch after graduating.
Always in a great mood and would make you laugh. Never was upset.
I will truly miss my friend!

Beauty queen, intelligent, ambitious, hard-working beautiful lady. Infectious smile...Rest in peace Jo-Ann - give them all a hug for us.

I worked under Jo-Ann at USF Health and she was always so supportive, kind and taught me to be a strong leader. I was sad that she was only my boss for a short time, but her impact on our team was wonderful. I'm so sorry that she left this earth so young. God bless her family and friends, she will certainly be missed.

Watching Bernardino and Jo-Ann find the ultimate love was fantastic. Never a doubt in my mind that they would build a strong and happy life. The wedding was beautiful. I was honored to be a bridesmaid. We shared their first married New Year´s Eve Celebration in Plymouth. Jo-Ann was always fun to be around. Upbeat and ready for anything. I remember them heading off in their camper for Florida. MOW in tow. What a couple of adventurers.
She tackled motherhood with the same zest and commitment. My niece and nephew are proof of her success in that endeavor. Sister-in-law, you leave a large whole in our lives that will never be filled.

My loving and special cousin buddy. So many memories: childhood family outings at Newfound Lake, overnights at her home in Plymouth, living next door in Manchester, working together at Merrimack Valley Branch of UNH, raising children that are kissing cousins today, lunch with Helen and the waiter, Aunt Medas 80th birthday party, snowbird lunches at Beef O'Bradys, and the list of memories is endless. So happy you, Bernie, Michael, Paige, Harper and Bennie were able to attend Gould gathering this summer. JoAnn and her family will always have a special place in my heart .

I was a flower girl at Uncle Bernie and Aunt Joann´s Wedding. They are a perfect match for each other. Joann would spend a lot of time with me. She taught me how to crochet and many other things. At 16 She tried to teach me to drive. I wasn´t a very good student. I will always keep you close to my heart. Love you Aunt Joann

It is with deep sadness that I read the news of the passing of Jo-Ann Alessandrini, who retired after serving WPI as Associate Vice President for University Advancement and Campaign Director. Jo-Ann passed away over New Year´s after a three-year battle with Alzheimer´s. Jo-Ann joined WPI in 2008 to oversee operations in Advancement and serve as campaign director for If...The Campaign to Advance WPI, which became the university´s most successful campaign at the time, closing at $240 million-$40 million beyond goal. Leading with clarity and kindness, she was known for her admirable work ethic and was instrumental in bringing WPI´s advancement operations to a new level of excellence. She helped to establish many of the policies and procedures that we follow still. She also recruited staff members who remain part of our team and who continue to make a positive impact here. Jo-Ann was an impeccable and compassionate leader. Several advancement team members have stayed in touch with her and her husband, Bernie, since her retirement, and even newer staff members know of her by reputation. Jo-Ann made us laugh with her quick, devilish wit and incredible timing, and she made us feel seen and heard through her generosity and gratitude. Jo-Ann never forgot anyone, and her WPI Advancement family will not forget her.

Jo-Ann was definitely one of my favorite fun-loving people. She relished new adventures and loved to role play. She always made me welcome in her house upon my numerous trips to Florida. I will miss her warm demeanor and infectious smile.

"with her brought laughter and fun, no matter what the occasion. Her smile lit up every room she ever entered" this is what I remember. Wished we stayed in contact over the years! A beautiful person inside & out! RIP Jo-Ann. Class of 1970

I´ll never forget all the fun times growing up. Your beautiful smile and your love for your family. God gained an angel in heaven.

We flew to Vegas for my cousin´s wedding. She rented a red convertible Mustang, and she LET ME DRIVE across the desert to California, then we went up the Pacific Coast Highway. It was just the two of us and we had a blast.

As her daughter, I think back to living at Hanover Street in Manchester. I remember disco music playing and my mother dancing in the kitchen while making breakfast. She really loved music and dancing.