In Remembrance of David Sacco

It is with heavy hearts that Engineers Without Borders USA extends its deepest condolences on the passing of David Sacco, a longtime volunteer and a cherished member of the EWB-USA family. With an unwavering dedication and a heart full of mentorship, Dave leaves behind a legacy that will forever resonate with our organization.

For a remarkable span of nearly two decades, Dave had an enduring commitment to advancing global development and nurturing the aspirations of emerging engineers. He served as an inspiring example to all and is remembered as a dear friend by hundreds of EWB-USA volunteers, staff, and partners. As we reflect on his journey, we are reminded of the profound impact he made, not only in the realm of humanitarian engineering but also in the personal and professional growth of countless students and staff.

Dave began his EWB-USA volunteer journey In 2004 when he took on the role of the founding advisor for the Engineers Without Borders USA Yale Student Chapter. Right away he became the guiding presence for the entire national organization. Over a span of nearly two decades, Dave embarked on transformative journeys with EWB-USA, working with communities in Honduras, Cameroon, Tanzania, Ecuador, and the U.S. This project work was not only about engineering solutions but about molding, mentoring, and igniting the spirits of countless students who worked alongside him. The indelible imprints he left on their hearts became enduring memories and lifelong lessons. Under Dave’s stewardship, impactful projects were initiated that extended access to clean and safe drinking water to over 5,000 individuals across three different continents. His leadership illuminated the path toward positive change, leaving tangible improvements in the lives of communities far and wide. In addition to mentoring students and his direct project work, Dave spent countless hours providing in-depth thought partnership and mentorship to staff. Through the years, Dave has been the go-to person for many staff to work through challenging technical and non-technical reviews and has been a constant pillar of insight and thought leadership.

Dave’s gentle and compassionate nature endeared him to many throughout his journey. His unwavering commitment to volunteers and community members forged an everlasting mark on countless engineering initiatives across the globe, a testament to his genuine devotion to changing lives. Dave organized a session at a recent EWB-USA conference, entirely dedicated to project leads to share stories with each other, about the friendships they made with community members in the field. He was convinced that there was much beyond the technical, in the true relationship we build across cultures and walks of life, that created meaning and significance in EWB-USA’s work.

Dave’s legacy crossed continents and cultures, reflecting his selfless dedication. Beyond EWB-USA volunteering, his altruistic spirit also led him to serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Gabon, a United Nations Volunteer in Sri Lanka, and a trusted engineering advisor to aid agencies in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, and Kosovo. His contributions reverberate in the realms of humanitarian aid and sustainable development, leaving an indelible mark of hope and progress.

We are profoundly grateful for his exceptional service, unwavering kindness, and unyielding dedication to Engineers Without Borders USA and to the field of humanitarian engineering. Dave’s remarkable contributions have not only uplifted communities but have also enriched the educational journeys of many students, fostering a profound sense of purpose and empathy.

Read Dave’s family’s remembrance and leave your own thoughts and experiences on a memory board.