Don Chapman '72
Don Côqayohômuwôk Morgan Chapman II passed away following a battle with cancer. Don was an active alumnus of the Class of 1972, a devoted husband and father and a talented singer and musician. He was a proud member of The Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut and an expert on Indian Country economic development and indigenous culture.
The son of a Coast Guard officer, Don spent his youth growing up around the country. He attended Carolton Oaks (now Norfolk Collegiate) as an upperclassman where he played basketball and was a member of the Monogram Club.
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After Collegiate, he followed his passion as a professional musician playing throughout the East Coast. His lifelong quest of learning led him to become a self-taught technical business development engineer, senior manager, leader in the electronics industry and U.S. Federal Government and Native American business development. In 2009, Don was appointed by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce as the first senior policy advisor on Native American affairs at the U.S. Department of Commerce. He also dedicated his time to several advisory boards, steering committees and professional associations.
Outside of work, he dedicated his time to his family, coaching and encouraging his sons in their athletic and life journeys. Don was always the first to volunteer for his alma mater, whether it was a special performance for our annual auction or coming back to speak to students. He was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2015.
Don is survived by Holly Day Chapman, his wife of 33 years, sons, Matthew Story Chapman and Christopher Arthur Chapman, father Ret. Cmdr. Donald Morgan Chapman Sr., sister, Debbie Chapman Taylor-Hunter, brother, Robert Scott Chapman, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Don spoke fondly of his time at Carolton Oaks and often reminisced about the impact it had on his life. Don was an Oak thru and thru. Please keep Don’s family in your thoughts and prayers.
