The first-year student with a passion for social justice passed away June 8, 2016, following a brief illness. His funeral service will be June 11 in Greensboro.
The following message was sent the evening of June 8, 2016, to the Elon Law community from Luke Bierman, dean and professor of law at Elon University School of Law.
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UPDATE (JUNE 9, 2016, at 2:40 P.M.) Jackson’s service will be held Saturday, June 11, at Woodard Funeral Home at 3200 North O’Henry Blvd. in Greensboro.
Viewing: 1-1:30 p.m.
Funeral Service: 1:30 p.m.
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It is with the heaviest of hearts that I write this evening to inform you of the death of Juma Jackson, a 1L who came to Elon Law motivated by a desire to help other people and, in his own words, “be a voice for the voiceless.” Juma passed away today from an illness that led him to step back from his legal studies earlier in the spring.
There will be a “Gathering of Friends” tomorrow for all who wish to share their feelings of loss and reflect on memories of Juma. It will be from 12-1 p.m. in Room 107 of the law school.
Though Juma’s time at Elon Law was short, he made a profound impact on those who knew him. He led a life of service to others and saw the law as a vehicle for social change. He also wanted to set an example for his children by using his legal education to confront injustice in all its forms. Juma embodied the finest qualities of an Elon Law student.
Those who knew Juma may benefit from speaking with a staff member or counselor. Marie Shaw, director of Counseling Services at Elon, will be available at the law school tomorrow from 2-4 p.m. Jennifer Brown, a counselor from Cone Health, is also available to students. They can contact her via email at jennifer.brown2@conehealth.com to set up a time to talk.
Anyone who would like to talk about their feelings of loss or concern for others may contact Counseling Services at (336) 278-7280 or the Truitt Center for Religious and Spiritual Life at (336) 278-7729. Counselors are available after hours on call by contacting Campus Safety and Police at (336) 278-5555. Elon University’s Student Life administrator-on-call may also be reached at (336) 278-5555 at any time.
If you have questions or if I can be of assistance, please email me at lbierman@elon.edu or call at (336) 278-9201.
Very truly yours,
Luke Bierman
Dean and Professor of Law
Elon University School of Law