Marie-Joan Dutreuil ’07, M.Eng. ’07, of West Orange, NJ, a high honors graduate and leader of the Class of 2007 who won several awards at graduation for her many talents, and served as Region I's Academic Excellence Chair, died on July 18, 2007, in a tragic watercraft accident in Pompano Beach, FL. She died a day before her 23rd birthday.

Below are the words of a close friend, easily reflecting the deep sorrow felt by all of the Region. MJ, you will be sorely missed.

I hope this finds all of you good. I read about the untimely and sudden death of our sweet sister Marie-Joan and could not believe it. So I decided to write this tribute in her honour. I felt I have lost a real sister because I knew her. In fact she was our time keeper when we (NLC Group 5 members) were brainstorming over our case study.

The tribute is below;

"Remember,Oh God, my life is only a breath;

My happiness has already ended.

You see me now, but never again.

If you look for me, I'll be gone.

Like a cloud that fades and is gone, a person dies and never returns" Job 7:7-10...Amen.

The late Marie-Joan was a very affable and easy-going person.

She related very well to all her colleagues.

She was loved by all manner of people who associated with her.

Her sence of duty was indeed enough motivation and inspiration to all those who had the opportunity to work with her.

How painful is it that you did not live long enough to actualize your dreams.

Death, why have you laid your icy hands on Marie-Joan?

Even as a Ghanaian, trained in a different cultural setting and environment, it was very easy for me to relate to her because of her openess and versatile nature.

NSBE has indeed lost a great daughter, sister and member.

Marie-Joan has really left a big vacuum which can never be filled.

We the living can only take consolation in the fact that Marie-Joan has contributed her quoted and paid all her dues in life.

We must therefore live for her and try to accomplish all what she desired in life and when the Good Lord comes for us someday, then we will meet with her and rejoice and be glad in the Lord.

Lets remember that man proposes but God disposes.

It is the Lord who gives life and it He who takes it back.

So if God has chosen to take back His daughter Marie-Joan, then let it be so.

Till we meet again, have a safe journey to your maker.

Bye,
Gideon (From Ghana).