Ben Mourer ’07 — A Community Mourns the Loss of a Beloved Coach and Alumnus
MEADVILLE, PENNSYLVANIA — A deep sense of loss has swept through the alleys, tracks, and hearts of Allegheny College as they mourn the shocking death of Ben Mourer, the head cross country and track & field coach and an esteemed alumnus of the class of 2007. Mourer tragically passed away on Sunday, June 15, 2025, after a devastating tree-related accident at his home. His death has left a profound void—not only in his family but across the college community that he served with unwavering passion and integrity .

A Life Rooted in Tradition and Excellence

Ben Mourer was more than a coach—he was the embodiment of Allegheny’s spirit. A four‑year Alden Scholar, a six‑time All‑NCAC honoree in both cross country and track & field, and a cornerstone of championship teams, Mourer graduated in 2007 with a history degree . During his college career, he played a pivotal role in the Gators’ dominance—an era of unprecedented success highlighted by four consecutive NCAC cross country championships and record finishes at the NCAA Championships

Returning to his alma mater in December 2015 as head coach for men’s and women’s cross country, and assistant coach for track & field, Mourer helped transform the Gators into conference powerhouses. Under his stewardship, the Gators secured multiple NCAC titles and a sweep of the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) women’s championships in 2022–23—an extraordinary feat in the history of Allegheny athletics

His leadership earned personal accolades too: four NCAC Coach of the Year awards in cross country and five PAC Coach of the Year honors in track & field. In the spring of 2025, three of his athletes became NCAA Division III All‑Americans, affirming his ability to cultivate excellence .

Tragedy Strikes at Home

The tragic event occurred on June 15 at Mourer’s residence in Meadville. While precise details remain limited, it is understood that the fatal accident involved a falling tree or large branch on his property. Emergency services arrived swiftly, but Mourer succumbed to injuries sustained in the accident (alleghenygators.com).

Allegheny’s Director of Athletics, Bill Ross, announced the news with deep sorrow: “We extend our sincerest thoughts and prayers to Ben’s family—his wife, Kim, Sons Arthur and Henry—as well as his colleagues and countless student-athletes whose lives he transformed” (alleghenygators.com).

The Man Behind the Titles

Ben Mourer was described by many as a coach who led by quiet example. Former athletes remember rigorous practice sessions punctuated by encouraging words, the occasional gentle prod, and unwavering faith in their capabilities. Through his mentorship, many young athletes found not just strength, but confidence beyond the track.

On campus, Mourer was known for traits that transcended sport—compassion, empathy, and an ability to connect with students, strangers, and friends alike. In an age of transactional coaching, Mourer offered transformational leadership, one life at a time.

A Community United in Grief

Hardly had the news emerged when the college community—undergraduates, alumni, staff—began gathering at the Robertson Athletic Complex parking lot, leaving flowers, notes, images, and running shoes. The ripple of grief extended through Meadville, where local clergy organized around-the-clock prayer services and counseling.

The college activated grief support via Edinboro Counseling, its Public Safety department, and the TimelyCare system to ensure anyone impacted could access professional help

Remembering Through Legacy

Mourer’s legacy extends far beyond personal accolades. His imprint lies in three NCAA All-Americans, dozens of conference champions, and countless student-athletes shaped by his guidance . Plans are underway to honor this legacy through:

• A memorial scholarship in his name to support student-athletes who emulate his blend of athletic and academic excellence.
• A permanent bench and garden at Moylan Field—a space for reflection and remembrance.
• A memorial race held each fall, ensuring Mourer’s spirit remains woven into the fabric of Allegheny athletics.

A Family’s Grieving Heart

For Mourer’s young family—his wife, Kim, and sons, Arthur and Henry—the loss is beyond measure. Expressions of love and support have poured in from alumni and current athletes. Responding to Mourer’s passing, some have visited his home, others have called to offer their help, and some have gathered hunter-orange running caps and signed them with messages of love.

Despite their heartache, the family has chosen to channel Mourer’s memory into positive work: promoting safety in outdoor endeavors and enhancing support systems for coaching families.

A National Coaching Loss

Ben Mourer’s death has left a void not just at Allegheny College but across national circles. His coaching reputation extended to Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where as head cross country and associate head track coach, he propelled 24 distance runners to All-Conference status, introduced the school’s first NCAA National Champion in 2011, and redefined team recruitment (alleghenygators.com).

To peers, Mourer was a respected voice in Division III athletics—honored for his coaching innovation and student-first philosophy.

The Healing Path Forward

Allegheny College will host a public memorial service when details are finalized . Until then, colleagues, students, and community members are urged to lean on each other and on grief resources. The college has promised ongoing mental health support for students, faculty, and families grappling with Mourer’s death.

Alumni are planning a community-run gathering in late summer to celebrate Mourer’s life and reaffirm their connection to his ideals.

Sustaining a Living Legacy

As reflections continue and tears fall, a powerful narrative of hope is emerging. Ben Mourer’s life—a blend of athletic prowess, mentorship, academic commitment, and humble service—offers a roadmap for transforming grief into purpose.

Athletes recall his gentle encouragement; neighbors remember checking on weather updates before intense storms; young colleagues speak of his generosity and coaching tutelage.

Together, these stories become a mosaic, a testament to a life fully lived—and now, fully treasured.

In Closing

Ben Mourer was more than a coach, alumnus, or friend—he was a compass: guiding young lives, strengthening a community, and embodying the very values academia strives to uphold.

His sudden departure has left an aching void. Yet, even in sorrow, a promise endures: his legacy is not confined to trophies or records, but lives on in every student he challenged, every athlete he supported, and every heart he touched.

In this quiet moment of grief, Allegheny College—and all who knew him—resolve not to let his memory fade. They will carry his mission—compassion, excellence, service—into every stride forward.

Rest in peace, Coach Mourer. Your journey continues in every life you shaped.