KU News Release

University mourns student Neil Hockenbarger

LAWRENCE — University of Kansas Chancellor Robert Hemenway and other KU officials released the following statements today on the death of KU student Neil Hockenbarger.

Hockenbarger, 26, a junior from McLouth, died Oct. 2 in a single-car accident in Lawrence. He was on active military duty and was selected through the Airman Education and Commissioning Program to complete his bachelor’s degree at KU.

Hemenway: “I offer deepest condolences to the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Neil Hockenbarger. On behalf of the university community, I honor him for his service to his country as well as his educational efforts.”

Stuart Bell, dean of the School of Engineering: “All of us in the School of Engineering are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. Neil represented so much promise for the future. Our thoughts and prayers are with those closest to him at this painful time.”

Lt. Col. Gena Stuchbery, commanding officer of KU’s Air Force ROTC: “Staff Sgt. Hockenbarger was the highest caliber of airman to be selected through a rigorous competitive process to complete the final two years of his mechanical engineering program and fulfill his dream of becoming a commissioned officer in the U.S. Air Force. The Air Force has lost a talented individual and valuable team member.”

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The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.