In Memoriam: 2000s

Notices sorted by graduation date

Jillian Carter Ford (Col class of ’01, Educ class of ’01) of Smyrna, Georgia, died Oct. 3, 2025. She was a Ridley Scholar who studied education and African American history at UVA. In 2011, she earned a Ph.D. in educational studies from Emory University. She dedicated her life to others, teaching at the high school, college, and graduate levels for 25 years. She was an associate professor of social studies education at Kennesaw State University. She mentored people from all walks of life and worked to fine-tune her craft through arduous study, classroom teaching and community organizing. Her career was infused with the joy of liberation, equity and social justice. Loved ones remember her magical presence, kind essence and sense of generosity. She was predeceased by her wife, Jamilah. Survivors include her partner, Lena; her parents; two siblings; and a niece and a nephew.