Paula Michelle Rooney

She was the daughter of the late Paul J. and Irene I Rooney. Born in Boston, Paula graduated from Framingham State University and went on to Indiana University where she earned her Masters and Doctorate degrees. She was the loving sister of Cynthia M. Rooney, M.D. She was the loving wife of P. Gerard Shaw and the proud mother of Paul R. Shaw.

Paula was a college administrator her whole career and touched the lives of thousands of students and colleagues in the most positive way possible. She served at Colgate University, Reed College, Babson College and finally at Dean College where she served as President for twenty-seven years. She received many awards and accolades throughout her career.

Professionally, Dr. Rooney served in leadership roles in many local and national organizations. She was President of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), and president of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM), She served on many Boards including Ithaca College and the Hockomock Area YMCA.

Paula and Gerry retired in 2022 and lived in Brewster, MA where she was active in St. Joan of Arc parish in Orleans. She loved gardening and reading on her deck. Most of all, she loved her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband, Gerry, her son, Paul, and her sister, Cindy. She is also survived by her friends, students, and colleagues whose lives have been so positively touched.

Paula's Calling hours will be held Friday, March 20, 2026 at Nickerson Funeral Home, 77 Eldredge Park Way, Orleans, MA 02653 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Paula's Funeral service Will begin at the funeral home on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 10:00 AM immediately followed by a Mass at St Joan of Arc Church in Orleans at 11:00 AM

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to the IU Foundation and write “The Paula M. Rooney HESA Fund “ on the memo line. Send to IU Foundation, 1500 N. State Rd. 46 Bypass, Bloomington, IN 47408.