JMU shares information on loss of students
JMU Headlines
Updated on Feb. 15, 2023 – As our university community continues to grieve together, we recognize the need for additional support. Linked here you will find ways to reach out for help and resources that are available to you. In addition, details on memorial services can be found below.
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Dear JMU Community,
The loss our community has felt today is unthinkable. We share our sincere condolences to our university community as a whole, but specifically to the families, friends and others with close connections to the students we’ve lost.
In these moments of significant grief, it is more important than ever to support and care for one another. Kindness, understanding and hope are things we all need to give and receive in the coming days and weeks ahead.
John “Luke” Fergusson (sophomore, majoring in Media Arts and Design from Richmond), Nicholas Troutman (sophomore, majoring in Business Management from Richmond) and Joshua Mardis (sophomore, majoring in Communication Studies from Williamsburg) were the JMU students who died in a tragic car accident overnight.
These three young men will always be remembered as Dukes and will forever be in our hearts.
In addition, please keep the two other students involved, who were also injured and are currently hospitalized from this accident, in your thoughts.
JMU offers the resources listed below to faculty, staff and students:
• TimelyCare – with after-hours care and support available
• JMU's Counseling Center or 540-568-6552
• Emergency Assistance Services
• JMU's Employee Assistance Program
• Self-help resources through the Counseling Center
In the coming days, we will be sure to share information on vigils and moments of remembrance with the JMU community. In the meantime, please know we care for each of you.
Take care of yourself,
Jonathan Alger, President
Malika Carter-Hoyt, Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer
Heather Coltman, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
Donna Harper, Vice President for Access and Enrollment Management
Nick Langridge, Vice President for Advancement
Tim Miller, Vice President for Student Affairs
Towana Moore, Vice President for Administration and Finance
