Testimonies
Jason stopped me after class to tell me I should become an academic. At that time, I was rejected from a PhD application, I wasn't sure if I should keep trying
He told me "it's their loss" and was willing to supervise me himself just to ensure I don't give up.
I'm doing my PhD elsewhere now. I always assumed I'd run into him at a conference one day and get to tell him. I'm so sad he isn't here to witness my growth, my journey is a trajectory he set off, I hope I'd have made him proud.
Leila Lai
Jason's MPhil student, 2025
I met Jason in my first year as a grad student at Cambridge, when he visited the Faculty before becoming Professor. At the time I felt exhausted as one of the few black students at the Faculty and felt pretty isolated. When I saw him in the Faculty his smile was like a warm light in a cold winter. We had a chat about Blackness and Cambridge and I remember him telling me how important it is for us as minority academics to stick together. It was a short interaction but one that was significant - so reassuring to see a face like mine, especially one that was so kind and confident in this space. He really gave me hope that I could make it here too.
Thank you Jason.
Anon
PhD Student
I first met Jason when he joined the faculty. As a Professor of Sociology, his work directly intersected with my own research in sociology and higher education. Over several conversations, we spoke about the complexities of institutional change, what makes it difficult, and what truly makes it work. He always showed genuine appreciation for my involvement with the Faculty of Education Research Student Association (FERSA), believing deeply in the role student leadership plays in creating sustainable change. In a large academic institution, he made me feel seen.
During my term as FERSA President from 2023 to 2024, Jason was selected as the keynote speaker for our annual conference. Watching him speak to our community was inspiring, but what stayed with me most was what he shared afterward. He told me that he saw my potential in the field because I truly cared. As a person of color navigating the field of sociology, seeing his leadership and hearing his belief in me gave me the confidence to believe that I have a chance in academia, regardless of the social constraints.
Jason once shared two insights that I will carry with me forever. He said that sociology is a discipline enabled by love and community. He also spoke about his commitment to teaching, telling me that he strived to give his absolute best to other people’s children in the classroom, hoping that others would do the same for his own children one day .
I am heartbroken to learn of his passing so soon after my graduation. I never had the opportunity to reach out as an alumna to share where my journey has led, but I will forever remember Jason as a remarkable scholar, a devoted teacher, and a compassionate mentor.
Thank you, Jason, for your unwavering kindness, your belief in us, and your tireless efforts to create real change. You will be deeply missed.
Rossa Darni
PhD Candidate
I had the pleasure and the privilege of working with Jason at the University of Glasgow, where he very quickly became my friend. He was sunshine personified: the most shining light of a person, forever uplifting and supporting the people around him. I went to him for advice often, and he was always wise and thoughtful. I learned so much from him: from his scholarship, which was brilliant and edifying, but just as much from the way he approached the world and other people.
In We See Things They'll Never See: Love, Hope and Neurodiversity, written with Chantelle Jessica Lewis, he refused to defer hope to some perfect future, the argument being that a better life for all of us is available now, not something we wait for. That was how he lived, too. His ethos of care and love, for friends, community and the people we work with, is something I will actively make sure is embedded in everything I do.
I am heartbroken about the death of this lovely, gentle, and kind man. The world has lost someone truly special.
Thank you for setting up this space for Jason. And thank you, Jason, for everything.
Melanie Ramdarshan Bold
He was my friend and my colleague at the University of Glasgow
Jason memorised each of our names in the first lecture. He got to know us all personally and would make everyone feel welcome, caring about our opinions but also constantly extending his support. I remember him stopping me in the street, asking if I ever needed anything to reach out. The fact that I had him for only about 3 lectures and he stuck with me as the kindest person from those lectures alone- this really shows the type of person he was. Anyone you asked in the faculty had nothing but kind things to say about him .
The misrepresentation of him is what hurt everyone the most, ask a single person that knew him and you would know. He deserved the kindness he showed us and more and he left a lasting impression that most lecturers hadn’t.
Jason will be greatly missed
Katya
I was in his lecture in undergrad
I worked with Jason at the start of my career and I've heard him speak at a few events ...I can only wish to have been one of his students! Jason was one of the kindest souls I have ever met and he was truly so brilliant. He was always humble and made sure to create a seat at the table for those around him. I was unsure whether I wanted to pursue a PhD and he took the time to talk things through with me - and I can see he mentored so many others.
He will be so missed, and he will be remembered by so many. What a privilege it is to have known him!
Anonymous
Worked with him
Jason taught me in my third year of university at Durham. He was the best lecturer/teacher I have ever had and was the kindest and most thoughtful person. He made great effort to memorise people’s names and also made people feel so inspired. Not many people in life (and academics) have the qualities and kindness that Jason had. What an absolute privilege to meet him.
He once gave me £10 in a lecture for guessing correctly a simply red song once!! I will never forget you Jason.
Issac
In his Race and Racism in the Uk module in 2021 at Durham
I was unsure about how to approach my dissertation which was on a challenging topic (grief education). Specifically, I couldn’t decide whether it was professional to include a personal narrative to preface the introduction. I stayed behind after class and asked Jason his thoughts. He reassured me that all research comes from a perspective and we write with it whether we address it or not. I’m fairly certain his advice to include it was what ultimately secured me a distinction for my dissertation (graded by two other lecturers), because this element was explicitly commented on positively. I’m grateful to Jason for being such an attentive and passionate lecturer. Students don’t always feel seen at Cambridge and many other lecturers had a distaste for teaching us, but he was talented teacher and I felt uniquely seen and understood by him.
Laura Johnson
MPhil student,2025
I met Jason only briefly as a PGCE student at the Faculty of Education attending a workshop he was running. Alongside fascinating discussions, I was also truly struck by the welcoming and kind classroom environment he created, learning each of our names and listening to our thoughts and experiences without judgement. His quiet, understated, yet very powerful presence as a facilitator of discussions in the room was absolutely mesmerising, and something I have brought forward into my own approach as an educator. A workshop of one hour only made a lasting impression. Thank you Professor Arday.
Gemma
PGCE student
His speech was the most memorable and thought-provoking. I kept thinking about it long after the conference ended and I’ve heared Jason to be the kindest mentor to so many young academics.
Emma
Heard his speech at the BSA conference this year
I didn't know or meet Jason personally but I was struck by an answer he gave at a professionals' conference last year. One of the delegates brought a moving, intimate, personal question from their life, and Jason didn't hesitate to respond in kind; he too spoke warmly and authentically, with depth and courage, about his own struggles and dilemmas. On reflection it's one of the loveliest and most surprising conference 'responses' I've ever encountered, and it absolutely echoes so much of what is written here and in his published work. Do small things with great love. I think the spirit of that encounter will stay with me; I hope I can bring that to my own teaching and professional work as well.
Sarah
I heard him contribute at conferences
Such a great soul. His demise and treatment makes one wonder if we could be subjected to the same when we get at the top. RIP Prof.
KK
Aspiring Black Academic
Jason was one of the kindest, most generous and humble individuals I have ever come across. Though we only had him for a few lectures, his compassionate and innately human approach to teaching left a lasting impression on us. My heartfelt sympathies goes out to his family, friends and anyone who was lucky enough to have known him.
Anonymous
He was my undergraduate lecturer
Beyond being a talented, thought-provoking teacher, Jason made students feel seen and heard. His class was unlike anything I had experienced before. In the space of 2 hours, he created, with us, a space of trust, wonder, reflection and laughter. His kindness radiated from him, and for the first time in a class I felt that we were truly encouraged to speak because a teacher was truly interested. He made me see that there was a way to make academia human, as something that comes from within. He made research seem an exciting, deeply human endeavour.
Jason will be remembered a warm, kind and inspiring Professor who students would wait around after class to speak to.
Thank you Jason, you will deeply be missed and remembered.
Anonymous
MPhil student 2025
Of the many optional sessions the Faculty offered to MPhil students, Jason’s were among the most distinctive and deeply influential to me. What stood out was the way he genuinely listened to students and took an interest in each person’s individual experience. This was not simply something reflected in his research or work, but something he practised through his everyday interactions with others.
Academia and higher education institutions can feel intimidating at times, especially when you are just starting out and navigating them as an international student. Feelings of exclusion or judgement are not always explicit, but they are there. We might call them microaggressions or something else, but what matters to me is that Jason avoided them at every level. In fact, he embodied the opposite: he made people feel heard, respected, and that they belonged. For that, I am deeply grateful.
I will always remember his encouraging words and the kindness he showed me.
LZ
MPhil student
Truly the kindest, most genuine teacher I've ever had. His commitment to a love-ethic in class and academia was so evident. He really "walked the walk" of compassion and thoughtful teacher. I always left class wishing it was hours longer and feeling so seen and capable. It was an absolute privilege to be taught by Jason. I will always remember him as the hilarious, gentle, profound teacher with excellent taste in music that he always was.
Anonymous
MPhil student
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Professor Arday. I feel very fortunate to have experienced his kindness and brilliance firsthand. My thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and students.
Anonymous
PhD student
Jason was not only a brilliant mind but one of the kindest souls in faculty. He is an eloquent speaker and a great thinker. My condolences go to his family and loved ones. He will always be remembered.
Anonymous
PhD Student
I started working with Jason in 2013, at St Mary's University, at the point I knew of him and we'd had a few brief interactions, but nothing of note.
Not long after Jason accepted a post in the Physical accepted a role in my department we spoke on the phone about his excitement to be moving back down to London. I'll never forget, what was initially supposed to be a quick call ended up lasting nearly two hours.
Following the phone call Jason started working in the same department in September, working with him fundamentally changed the way I approach both lecturing and interacting with people broadly.
Having previously been employed as a graduate TA, I was always uncomfortable about being a similar age to the students and would often keep my head down on the walk from the station to campus dreading awkward conversations with students.
That was until I kept bumoing into Jason at the station, on the way between the station and campus he would talk to every one of our students he saw asking questiins about them and taking the time to get to know their interests.
As the year went on I saw him do so many small things thar made such a difference to student's experiences:
1)He'd greet them all by name when entering the classroom, often accompanying this with either a compliment or a question that related directly to them, e.g. how was the drive from Hillingdon? Showing them he remembered information about them.
2) His tutorials would last as long as a student needed to grasp a concept or understand how to improve their work often at his own expense - meaning he'd have to work late into the night on lecture prep or his own research.
3) He would stay and answer questions to students long after lectures finished - some times staying up to half an hour. Some times students would just stick around to show him social media videos about "aunty" and "uncle".
4) He would share his own personal stories with students but only once he knew their's too. He would use these stories to help students understand concepts
5) Working late into the night he would prioritise responding to students emails before starting his own work.
Over this time I was particularly priveleged to become friends with Jason. Spending hours with him, Stuart Whigham, Emma Newman and Amy Price planning lectures, seminars and putting the world to rights.
One moment that particular stood out to me was after the tragic passing of one of our first year students. The funeral was being held in South London in winter on a Saturday and it was freezing. Jason and I decided to meet at Clapham Junction and make our way to the funeral from there. Being cold I bought two hot chocolates and gave one to Jason when he arrived, to this day I've never met someone so excited or thankful for a hot chocolate.
When he left in 2014 to take a post at Leeds Beckett, he bought a number of colleagues personalised gift vouchers despite being the one who was leaving.
After Jason left St Mary's we stayed in touch at times talking nearly daily for many years, either calling each other or leaving voice notes with the content varying with anything from sociology, DEI initiatives, to professional wrestling, or music.
We'd often discuss things like whether he prefered The Jam or Liam Gallaghers version of Carnation, Jason always picked anything Liam did.
When comissioned to write his first edited collection - which was full of well known academics, he went out of his way to invite Stuart and I to write a chapter, something I'd never done before. Our first draft was week, and nearly got cut from the collection. However, the constructive and kind feedback provided by Heidi Mirza and Jason meant we were able to salvage the chapter and gave me my first publication as a lead author. Something, that built my confidence immeasurably. A chapter that was some what surprisingly turned into an article for the Guardian.
At every twist and turn I've faced in HE, Jason has been there to help me along the way and offer support. In truth the examples above don't even start to do justice to the impact he's had on me, whether it's the networks he supported me in building, the books and podcasts he exposed me too, or the time he took to listen to my ignorance and never judged me. Or the confidence he gave me to get involved with my university's Race Equity Network, and set up initiatives with my colleagues. He had a very gentle way of letting me know if my latest "bright idea" was tokenistic or misguided, without making me feel stupid or demoralised.
I can't believe I'll never receive a new voice note that starts "Hey Hobs how you doing?" or start a phone call with the same 10minutes of conversation before we move on to talk about what's new.
The crazy thing is I know so many others will have similar stories and while I feel incredibly priveleged to have called him a friend hundreds of people will have similar stories.
Professor Jason Arday, you are forever loved and forever missed.
Michael Hobson
I worked with Jason at St Mary's University and became freinds.
I met Jason during my college years. I was one of two girls doing a sports btec, the rest of the class was made up of well off boys and I was experiencing homelessness and the accompanying medical and financial struggles. Jason was my teacher and my football coach but most of all Jason checked in on me almost every day, he made sure I had somewhere to sleep and eat, he made me feel I belonged and that I could succeed no matter the circumstances. I can't express how out of my depth I was trying to succeed in education in an arena I felt I had no business being in but Jason opened the door pulled out my chair and made sure I was there to stay. He also introduced me to a sports coaching company and I worked there for 11 years before eventually getting my degree. Jason made it possible because he saw beyond my circumstances and ensured there was a place for me, he didn't want me to be grateful for it, he wanted me to be comfortable and accepted. I will never forget his kindness, his smile, fun energy and the two things he would always say, be the change you wish to see in the world and Take it to the bridge!
Sophie
I was his Btec student at Richmond upon Thames college
Jason once said in response to a question of how he would change the world if he could, "I would take a thread and a needle and I'd interweave love into our society."
He did that. Every day. He had a remarkable ability to see people. He recognized and acknowledged their value as a human being before their position at the university.
By the end of our very first lecture, he remembered each of our names. He was a brilliant academic, and the passion he had for his field was contagious. We were all so excited whenever we had him come in for a lecture. He could take these complex theories and bring them to life in a way that we felt comfortable engaging with them.
Personally, I attended Cambridge on a scholarship, was new to academia, and was the first in my family to attend and graduate college. I struggled to understand the unstated protocols of Oxbridge. He spoke to me with genuine care and pride as he acknowledged my experience. As I said, I wasn’t the only one. In a world where we are often reduced to numbers, in the publications we produce, the tuition money we bring to an institution, or the conferences we attend, he saw his students for their inherent worth.
He was gentle and generous. He will continue to inspire our 2025 MPhil cohort throughout our careers and our lives 💗
Brittney
Jason's MPhil student
Whilst I was in a position to ‘teach’ others in Uni / Masters courses, it was often Jason who would educate me, especially in areas of education and life that I had not experienced or researched in depth. He brought reality into our sessions and beyond the classroom.
Jason always had time for others, he had no barriers in place that stopped me knowing him.
I won’t forget Jason’s most amazing smile that brought light and calm to us all.
Jools Pearson
I was a lecturer and taught him during his Masters course
I had the pleasure of being in Jason’s seminar group for my sociology module whilst studying Physical Education. Jason was instantly different from the rest of the lecturers at the university. He took the time to get to know his students, told us about his life and motivated us to succeed.
His sessions were inspiring, not only through content but through his delivery.
Sending love to his family at this awful time.
Anonymous
Undergraduate student
Jason was an inspiration to me. I admired his openness about his identity within higher education and the way he used his voice and experiences to challenge the oppressive structures that continue to exist within HE. This perspective has shaped my own perspectives and goals in HE. I was incredibly fortunate to hear Jason speak at the BSA, where his warmth, passion and beautiful energy filled the entire lecture hall. He was someone who made an impact simply by being unapologetically himself, and I feel privileged to have heard him speak.
Ashley Collar
Emerging Sociologist
I was on a panel last year. That is when I met Professor Jason Arday. As I sat at the table waiting for my panel to go on stage I remember seeing Jason come in and the excitement I felt in seeing him. I had read positive things about him and that he was neurodivergent like me. When he sat at the table I said hello and introduced myself. He smiled graciously and said hello. I could tell in that moment that he had a gentle soul.
Saddened by his loss. One can only imagine what he could have gone on to achieve and how many people he would have helped.
Dianne
We were on a panel together
Jason and I became friends when I asked him where he was from at an anti-racism conference in Edinburgh.
He said, London.
I said no, but where.
He probably got annoyed and said well my family is from the Caribbean.
I said, I meant where in London you fool! This is an anti-racism conference who do you think I am a nice white lady?
He immediately laughed and we became friends.
From then on whenever we’d meet at conferences I’d bring him something tokenistically fake Jamaican (Reggae, Reggae sauce for example) and he’d bring me something that nice white ladies like (most recently pumpkin spice syrup) and we’d say oh, I saw this and I thought of you! It was a good bit.
He was funny. He was so so kind.
He was positive we could get this anti-racism thing right and academia could be a space of equity and learning. I thought he was full of bs butterflies and rainbows and told him so. Hate that I was probably right. I wish he was right.
I miss him.
Steph
We were conference buddies and friends
I first met Jason in 2022, at a conference where we both gave keynotes. One of the first thing we talked about was the quirks associated coming from Ghanaian families. I told him that I had applied for promotion, but that though I'd passed the first stage, I wasn't sure what would happen next. He said 'this should have happened years ago'. I explained that I wasn't ready, but he thought I was (clearly he saw something I didn't!). Later that year I was having a massive wobble, and had talked myself into thinking that I wouldn't get it. He said and I quote 'I'll bet my house that you will'. I told him that that was a tall order, and if I lost, welp! Anyway, exactly a month later, I had to accept that I'd lost a huge bet, and he sent me the best voice note, which I will treasure for ever. That was the voice of someone who was a true advocate. Since then, we talked, and he sent some really heartwarming voice notes. Any time I saw him, I always bought him shortbread, because in his words 'this is one of my biggest weaknesses' (as one who LOVED chocolate, I truly understand that!). The last time we met, we were joking about being Ghanaian kids, and how we couldn't understand the rationale behind evaporated milk in tea. We agreed it was offensive! I was also telling him about a film project I'm collaborating with students on and he said he'd come and see it. I was always conscious not to ask him for anything because he gave so much, but if he wanted to come to the showing, we would have had him as our guest of honour.
Jason was one in a million, and one of the kindest people I have ever known. He was a typical Taurus, in that he gave more than he had. I wish him Godspeed and eternal peace.
looloo
He was a friend
I couldn't help thinking when I met Jason what a warm and friendly person he seemed to be, and what a bright smile he had. When my friend passed his PhD viva, Jason was quick to give him kind and positive advice about celebrating the moment. It has been heartbreaking to see the character assassination and systematic take-down of someone who, by all accounts from everybody that knew him, was gentle, compassionate and genuinely wanted to make a difference.
Anonymous
Met him on his first day at the Faculty of Education, Cambridge
The best memories i have of Jason were those that had more to do with the kind of person he was, how he spoke to juniors, peers and how he always moved with humility and love. After a big conference where named profs , poet activists came to a panel and jason was an attendant for a student led discussion, He didnt take space, he simply asked 'what can we do to help you all (students of colour). Later as the event wrapped and everyone was leaving. I saw from the corner of my eye, jason was taking plates, rubish, leftovers and cleaning up with the events staff. I quickly joined him and started chatting with him.
Later that year i wanted to quit the Phd. I was too jaded and alienated from the academy and its performativity. I wrote to him, hoping he would remember me. He responded almost immedietely saying ofcourse i remember you. And gave me his number to call him. We talked about how i was feeling and how i felt betrayed by other senior staff of colour. He was the only person to tell me 'ahmed, to me, you are already a brilliant scholar. You dont need a phd to prove it. So you not wanting to do this, is up to you. But dont let it define your brilliance'. I wont ever forget those words.
When i met him a year later at another conference , he smiled and said he was happy i stuck around.
Every year since then i thought of writing to him. But i always thought of how much emotional weight he carried all the time supporting younger people and peers. So i never wrote to him enough..i wish i did.
Jason was one of my models for how to move with care, love and kindness not just in the academy , but in life.
This world lost a genuinly kind,loving and gentle soul. May God embrace him as he embraced us all.
Ahmed
I first met Jason (when he was at Roehampton)) during my 4th year of PhD. He came for a talk on mental health and black students. I remember thinking how soft spoken, generous and caring his approach was towards everyone. He came back a year later as an attendant of a conference i had co-organised. Soon after he became a mentor, someome i would write to for advice.
Jason was the kindest tutor I have ever had. I was struggling with challenges surrounding my ADHD and various health issues. He was really empathetic and kept me going when I was considering dropping out of Durham. At his last lecture, he made sure to say goodbye to each of us as we left. I will never forget how he told me he was so glad I made it through the course and that I should seek PhD funding, which I did! I’ll never forget how supportive he was of young scholars, and he is a huge part of why I’m in academia now.
Emma
He was my year tutor at Durham during my undergraduate degree.
Jason and I were both appointed at approximately the same time in 2014 at a university in the north of England. We became office buddies shortly after that and our friendship began…
I was immediately struck by that sunny and positive disposition- it was embodied- and affected everybody who came into his orbit. Humility, generosity and goodwill oozed from every pore in his being. Students were enraptured by his stories that reflected his lived experience, and the mood for each seminar/lecture set by his own collection of curated Britpop or Soul that gently thrummed away as students entered the room or auditorium. He greeted every student with that warmth and reassurance, that came so easily to Jason.
Jason had a love of popular culture that became the mood music to our office- whether it was music: Hendrix, Oasis, Kasabian; fashion- man he could grab a room with his sartorial elegance- or sport. We both enjoyed our darts and I remember we would spend too much time talking over the previous week’s Premier League performances.
A group of us would go out and play pool (I never beat him) and went to pub quizzes- winning a bottle of red one week. I also regret that I encouraged his love of KFC (other fried chicken is available): “Jay, I can hear the Colonel calling” was a message that became all too familiar!!
Recalling these anecdotes brings me tremendous happiness, when the last few days especially have brought only shock, despair and sadness.
The side of Jason I recall here is the after hours Jason, Jason the Everyman and act as a beautiful juxtaposition to the academic, mentor and inspirational speaker that others have rightly spoken of.
To me he was Jay- simply Jay- and that was all I ever needed.
RIP friend
Ruan Jones
Former colleague
Jason had the greatest talent and skill that any educator can possess; the strong ability to ignite passion in others. I am so lucky to have been taught by Jason during my undergraduate at St Mary’s. Thankyou for the inspiring lectures and seminars, both in the classroom and the practicals. Legend
L Timmins
Undergraduate student
Professor Jason Arday was one of the humblest, most caring and hardworking individuals I have ever known.
Not only was I able to call you my College tutor and teacher (Richmond College), and later my University lecturer (St. Mary’s), but I was fortunate enough to call you my friend.
I still remember our first day at Richmond College in 2009. We were waiting for enrolment when we were greeted by you, wearing chino shorts and boat shoes, and your massive smile. Your warmth, positive energy and aurora helped settle us as we began our next step within further education. One of the ice breaker activities you selected was based on trust, whereby you stand behind someone, the person falls and the partner catches them. At first no one put their hand up to demonstrate, and I am pleased that I then built the confidence to step up. First I caught you (thank you for trusting in me), and then I turned around and entrusted you. As I fell, my doubts grew as I fell closer to the ground, but just before the ground you caught me, and from then on I knew you had our backs.
Your passion for education was second to none and could never be questioned. Soon after we started at Richmond, you met with the parents of our class, and I know you provided them with the warmest and most inspiring vision for their children to succeed.
Knowing your experiences of growing up and the challenges you faced, I know this epitomised your ethos within teaching. Any question, any interaction, no matter who it was, you always had time for people. No matter how big or small the issue, you were always willing to support.
You made it your mission to know everyone’s name within the College / University, whether they were a teacher or lecturer, or a member of the non-teaching staff. Your energy, motivation and passion were instilled within us all and enabled us to thrive in our studies and beyond.
You enabled us to unlock our potential, even when some of us couldn’t fully see what we were capable of ourselves.
Even after we had finished at College, you were always there to support me, have a conversation, or catch up about how things were going. You continued to inspire me to believe in my own potential, expressing I would make a great Headteacher, even though I couldn’t see it. I unfortunately didn’t get the chance to update you, but I have taken my next step on my journey and become Associate Senior Leader (Pastoral). Thank you for always believing in me.
I know you inspired thousands of individuals throughout your time lecturing, as well as countless others whose paths you crossed in wider life. You impacted people positively, just as you did me.
Your dedication to helping others didn’t stop at the classroom. From your fundraising initiatives, to the time you dedicated to homeless shelters, you were always looking for ways to make a difference.
And then there was your marathon running. I know I only joined you for a small part of one of those runs, from Twickenham to Teddington and back at around 5am, but your resilience and commitment were incredible. Completing 30 marathons in 35 days took a truly remarkable level of determination.
I know Sandro was your inspiration outside of your family.
I am pleased to say that you were my Sandro.
On our first day, you shared a poem with us all, written by Donna Levine, You Can Be Whatever You Want To Be. Those words have stayed with me ever since.
Not only did I use the poem during my own studies, but I have carried it with me into my teaching. Sharing it with my tutor groups, and now my year group to support, encourage and drive their potential.
That is just one example of the impact you have had on my life, and I will support maintaining your legacy to inspire others.
You were an incredible individual, an incredible teacher, an incredible mentor, and an incredible friend.
I feel incredibly fortunate that our paths crossed.
Thank you for believing in me, for believing in so many others, and for showing us what it means to genuinely care about the people around you.
I hope you are at peace now, Jason.
I, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing you, will miss you enormously.
Stephen Cowley
Richmond College tutee/student, St. Mary’s University Undergraduate student and friend
Jason was extremely knowledgeable in his field and shared such insightful feedback on my dissertation which I’m taking forward into my PhD applications. He truly is an inspiration to all.
Anonymous
MPhil student at Cambridge
'What will motivate you more than an opportunity to get a Phd from Cambridge ' (Prof Jason Arday)
Jason was the ultimate motivator!
Darnell
Jason was my Phd supervisor
I was a former student of Jason’s at St Mary’s in 2013.
I was fortunate enough to know Jason during my first year of University. His style, knowledge and enthusiasm for his students was second to none, everyone looked forward to Jason running the sessions! But what really stuck with me (something I still carry to this day) was his kindness and empathy for others. He would regularly stay after seminars just to listen and talk, something so simple but exactly what every first year student at university needs, a calming voice and somebody who cares.
David
former student
Some of my works focused on improving Black students’ academic experiences, performance and Mental Health and Well-being in universities. I referenced a lot on Arday, et.al.
I can also tell you the hell I went through defending why those pieces of work were important. What is not known to many is the extent to which being coerced to "just write NORMAL pieces like anybody else" goes/went. He inspired me to survived that phase through reflections of his work.
Dr Arday was a role model for Black British Academia and an advocate for improving African and Caribbean Heritage students’ experience.
Visibility and work as his matters to future generations because, Dr Arday tirelessly dedicated himself to changing the Black Academia Experiences. To people like myself, this is a big loss but his legacy will continue through his body of work.
Anonymous
Protege
I first met Jason as a fresher at St Mary's. He was so kind, had the most infectious smile, and always had time for everyone, no matter who you were.
Following his journey over the years, I've been so proud watching him overcome every obstacle and achieve great things.
Jason you touched many lives, inspired so many people and will continue to do so for generations. You will be sorely missed.
Anonymous
I was at St Mary's University with him
Jason (Prof. Arday) was an exemplary supervisor who brought so much passion and energy to our supervisions. He made me feel like family, and was always at the end of a phone whenever I felt overwhelmed or wanted to share some good news. He continued to show me support even after he left Durham (and was therefore no longer my supervisor), so that with his encouragement I presented at my first conference, which Jason paid for me to attend out of his own pocket when he learnt I couldn't afford to fund this myself. I continued to benefit from his legacy at Durham after he left, as he helped secure millions of pounds to fund PRO: NE, an initiative designed to remove systemic barriers for students of colour in 5 northeast universities (Durham, Northumbria and Newcastle, Sunderland and Teesside). Through this scheme I received mentorship from an established academic of colour, who supported me through my PhD journey and helped shore up my resilience whenever I struggled to continue. Jason was a wonderful human, who lived his values and touched so many lives. He was the best of us and I will miss him so much. Rest in power dear friend.
Shabana
He was my first PhD co-supervisor at Durham Uni.
Jason and I would chat online about music that we liked, and gigs that we had been to. My favourite memory of Jason is us sharing our experiences of going to see Blur live at Wembley (the two gigs they did there). We were both excited to go but Jason was piqued that I got to see them on Sunday when they (in his opinion) had better support bands. We both laughed that Steve Davis (the snooker player) was DJ’ing for the band both nights. My favourite memories are sharing this love of music, chatting about a mutual interest, sharing common ground. I loved him dearly. I will miss him terribly.
Professor Stephen Eichhorn
He was my friend.
Jason strongly believed in me, I shared with him my future work plans, and most of the times I was doubting myself and he would encourage me to keep working hard and towards my goals, he was the most kindest person at the Faculty of Education, he knew everyone one of us by name, he even hugged each everyone of us before or after lessons, I was just editing my CV and it hurt to remove his details from my CV.
He deserved better.
Melody
He was my MPhil Supervisor and Lecturer
I got to know Jason through a research project, where he created time for us to get to know each other as people, and as academics. We immediately bonded over a shared commitment to social justice not only through our research but also through our union. Jason showed himself to be kind, a passionate advocate for a fairer research workplace for us all, as well as an excellent speaker and knowledge exchange practitioner. I will miss Jason's voicenotes, checking in with me; offering his time as a sounding board and his personal support of my career. I hope I offered at least of the same to Jason. I'm very glad to have got to know Jason and to have shared time with him.
Not enough time though.
Kate
Colleague and friend
Jason always made an effort to KNOW his students. Understanding how difficult it is within these educational spaces as an minority alongside being neurodiverse, he’d always ask me how I was coping and if i needed to chat, I was always free to drop an email. He made me feel like I belonged here. He didn’t judge me when I would ask questions, felt confused, restless, kept out of loop, he understood and listened all the time.
I sincerely wish he is at peace and I wish we could have protected him better from the public/media’s wrath in the same way he made me feel like I belonged and deserved to be at an institution like Cambridge.
He was empathetic in a way that did not feel performative. He was truly there, present and willing to help you overcome. Being in a space like Cambridge can feel very isolating, lonely and suffocating but he always advocated for love and seeing the strengths in others without being condescending or harsh. He will always be someone I remember fondly and in loving memory of forever.
Dami
I was his undergraduate student
J was all the things you all have written about him and more. I started working with him when i was initially part-time at Leeds then latterly during a full-time lectureship in the School of Sport at Leeds Beckett University.
He had a kind word and a smile for everyone, whether they were a colleague, student, cleaner or PE technician.
He supported me immeasurably when i was diagnosed with cancer and during subsequent gruelling treatment. He became a good friend and we often worked in the offices at Beckett Park long into the evening. Nothing was too much trouble. I quite honestly don’t know how i would have got through that year without his support. He just ‘got it’. Students loved him and were never without a high five.
As a fellow disabled person for some unexplained reason even though we know we have nothing to prove professionally or personally for some it is innate in us to do so. It’s subconscious. It’s our worst enemy at times but also helps drive us forward. To overcome the challenges in Education and Academia is hard enough but when part of a minority group it can seem insurmountable at times. But in true Jason style he never gave up.
J worked other jobs to support his family whilst living away from them during the week and travelling back at weekends. He was fiercely loyal and proud of them.
It is a travesty he is no longer here to resonate that kind, warm persona everywhere he goes. He is greatly missed in so many ways and those who never had the pleasure of meeting and knowing him have most certainly missed out. RIP J.
Vicki Gilbert
A Lecturing Colleague at Leeds Beckett
I first met Jason in an advice session he led about race and racism, and he was exactly the intelligent, knowledgeable person we needed. He communicated a great deal of information while responding to the needs we expressed: as so many others have said, when he was teaching someone, his whole attention was given to meeting them where they were and helping them as they needed to be helped.
I think of myself as his friend, but honestly, he was by default friends with everyone he met.
The last time I saw him was when my lecture overran and crept right up to the start of his. I started to apologise, but he shut me up with a hug and smile, as his students streamed in around him, eager to spend another class learning with him.
He was a treasure of a human being, teacher, and colleague.
Joe S Sanders
I was his colleague at Cambridge
I was a student of Jason’s at St Mary’s in 2013.
Jason understood me when no one else did.
The way he really went to depth in his lecturers to make sure everyone understood was just a work of art! He really is a knowledgeable force and he will always be known to me as that.
I will never forget his high energy, high spirits. Jason's always with a smile.
Ashleigh
I was a Student at St Mary's University, Twickenham
I have known Jason since we were both 11 years old. What some people dont know is that he was a great dancer. I have fond memories dancing to Michael Jackson, "Dont Stop Till You Get enough" at his wedding and "Beat It" on the stage of the Students Union bar 🤣
For 30 years he was there for me, inspired me, made time for me, and helped me. His wise counsel was an ever present in my life. The hours on the phone when I was struggling, the laughs the hugs, the words of encouragement. He was a true friend, he was like a brother.
His achievements are far too much to list and those who really knew him, knew who he was and knew how much faith he had in humanity.
He always believed in me, and told me that I was amazing, and he would always reminded me of my achievements. He would say "never to doubt yourself Joni". He actively listened and remembered all the small details like a true friend. If I had a grievance with someone he was always say "kill them with kindness Joni, kindest always wins"
He once stayed over in my room on campus after I invited him back to an event as an alumni. We stayed up until 3am talking about the world our goals, our families, football and much much more.
The 30 marathons in 35 days is REAL... it happened, I was there and on the last day he was in so much pain. To be honest so was I, and I had only ran half of it. But I drew strength from him and I kept going. He actually found a second wind and sprinted off with a few hundred meters to go leaving me and a few others behind. We could not keep up. This man was extraordinary.
He inspired me and so many other people and I am eternally grateful to have known him and be part of his journey.
Rest in eternal peace
Professor Dr Jason Arday 🖤💔
Jonathan Miller
We attended the same school,played in the same football team and went to St Mary's University together.
Jason was one of the kindest and most intelligent people I have ever met. We met through our work and went on to collaborate on numerous projects focused on race equity. We also became good friends.
I will always remember the first time I met him. We were in a room discussing the development of guidance on tackling racial harassment in Higher Education. There were only three of us from racially minoritised backgrounds; the rest of the room was made up of white colleagues, including several Vice-Chancellors from different universities.
In his own inimitable style, Jason immediately highlighted this dynamic. He had an incredible ability to name what was happening in a room, challenge people to think differently and do so with a sharp intelligence, warmth and humour that was completely his own. His intervention resulted in consultation and engagement with RM staff and students on the guidance.
That moment stayed with me because it captured so much of who Jason was. He was fearless in speaking truth to power, deeply committed to racial justice and equity, and incredibly thoughtful about how we create meaningful change. It was a privilege to work alongside him, and I will always remember his brilliance, his energy and his ability to make an impact simply by being himself. I will always remember his encouragement and support, he was an amazing peer and he was my friend. I will miss our crack ups, our fights against racism and his voice notes. Rest in power Jason.
Ammara
I worked with Jason and he was also my friend
When he was at Durham, Jason invited me to join a grant application he was writing for the five north east Universities, for a project to tackle the barriers to PhD study.
It got funded and, like the other 12 projects nationally, was inspired by his ideas, talent, determination and generosity.
Although I was at a senior stage of my career by this time, I learnt a huge amount from him, and from all of the students who got involved and had a vehicle to speak about their own experiences. There’s a long way to go, but together we’ve made a more level playing field for future scholars; not giving unfair advantage to anyone but instead reducing disadvantage - whatever someone’s background of race, social class or disability is.
Jason was one of the brightest, kindest, most selfless and caring academics. My sincere condolences to all his family, friends and colleagues for their tremendous loss. His legacy goes on and the work won’t stop.
Professor Rachel Pain
I worked with him
It is impossible to do justice to the outstanding man Jason was by focusing just one good memory of him, as I have so many positive memories of my friend and ex-colleague.
From my first time working with him at St Mary’s, it was abundantly clear how outstanding an educator her was. He had a truly inspirational manner with his students, and I’ve never know someone with such an ability to capture the attention of a room with such warmth and ability. It was truly remarkable.
As a friend, I have so many positive memories both personally and professionally - from meeting up informally to catch up on life, though to collaborating together at guest lectures, and then sharing achievements with each other over WhatsApp with friends. He always was humble of his own achievements, but it was great to celebrate them with him as they came along!
I will miss his warmth, compassion, humour and intellect, and the many colleagues, friends, students and others who had the luck to cross paths with him will be feeling this loss greatly too. Rest in peace, Jason.
Dr Stuart Whigham
Ex-colleague, co-author, and friend
I knew Professor Arday as Jason, we were in the same Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy Master’s program at Birkbeck. He doing the psychodynamic practice track. Even in those early seminars you could feel how seriously he took the work of actually sitting with people, not just theorising about it.
He had a way of noticing people. After seminars he’d sometimes stay behind and ask how your placement was going, or whether the personal therapy was feeling manageable that week. Nothing dramatic. Just proper attention.
In a course that could feel quite exposing, he made a lot of us feel less alone in it. He remembered small details and treated the work like something we were doing together rather than something to get through.
I’m grateful I trained alongside him. He was genuinely kind in a way that stayed with you.
Tyler
In the same Masters Program
We were both new at LJMU, shared an office and both entered the world of HE teaching together. I was at the concluding ‘year’ of my PhD, Jason at the start. He took the time to learn the name of every person he met - our office cleaners, students and staff.
I always remember him starting his lectures with Bob Marley, or some other artist that he thought the students should know about. He would put the music on so it was already playing when they entered the room, allowing students to come in, get settled and then, when the lecture was about to start - he would turn the music down and the students would begin their focus on him. I took this element of his approach to teaching with me (and still use over 14 years later). When I asked why he did this - it just gives them a space in which we are all equal and removes the power or fear from the room. I remember he even got the classes singing…… engagement in learning was his super power.
From those early days; his knitting, his rush to the station on a Friday evening to get home to his wife and child, to seeing him in the office before me on a Monday morning. He always smiled, shared kindness and we spent a year enjoying each others company, development and a shared perspective on our experience.
A man with so much kindness didn’t need to be hunted by the press. I hope thay stories of love and positivity which in the outpouring of stories help your family find the solace in the memories of kindness we retain and small acts that are undertaken because you taught, shared or shaped them.
Rest in both power and peace.
Helen
Colleague at Liverpool John Moores University
I first met the lovely Jason while studying my BA (Hons) Sport Development at LJMU. My first memory of Jason was him walking into a lecture hall full of young students starting off their University journey. He instantly mesmerised and inspired every one of us when talking to us, making me feel like I could achieve anything I put my mind to.
Jason went out of his way to get to know each student that was happy to be approached, always remembering names!
Personally, Jason helped and supported me through his kind and empathetic character, while I was going through a very tough time with my family and I will be forever grateful for that.
Jason will be sadly missed and the sky has gained one of the biggest and brightest stars it could ever wish for!
All my love to you Jason and your family.
Charlie Mills
LJMU, while studying BA (Hons) Sport Development
Met Jason at West Thames College when he worked there as a BTEC sports lecturer (sometime between 2012 and 2016?). He would come to our office and chat with us between classes; such a genuine and affable person and that’s how I remember him: kind, super polite, easy to talk to and ready with a smile. Not many people are made like that.
Anonymous
Worked with Jason at West Thames College
We didn't work in the same department, but we taught in the same part of the college, and we always smiled and said hello.
I was forever rushing to my next lesson, so I never really had the chance to get to know Jason properly.
But what I remember most is his smile and that he never failed to say hello, no matter how busy he was, hurrying to get his classroom ready for students.
I wish I had stopped to speak with him.
That small, everyday kindness, a genuine smile and a hello even in the busiest moments, is what has stayed with me all these years, and it's how I'll choose to remember him.
Rest in peace, Jason.
Annemarie O'Dwyer
Sociology lecturer at Richmond upon Thames College, when Jason taught sport there
I was briefly taught by Jason between 2009 and 2010 at Richmond Upon Thames College whilst he was studying at St Mary's University.
I distinctly remember his belief in my ability to achieve my goals. Jason was kind, relatable, inspiring, and everything I wish more teachers in education were. His belief in me gave me the confidence to pursue a university education.
It wasn't until a few years ago, when I studied for my MSc after a long gap from academia, that I heard about Jason's achievements. I couldn't have been prouder of him. I am devastated to hear of his passing following the unfair, racially motivated attacks on him by the media, with institutions falling silent until it was too late.
I am due to attend my doctoral viva defence in a couple of weeks' time. Part of this is thanks to people like Jason, who showed unconditional support for students such as me.
I hope I can pay forward the love he showed us to others whose capabilities and talents have yet to be realised.
Rest in Power, Professor Arday.
Anonymous
He taught me at college
Jason was our AU President at St Mary's and I will never forget the way every single person spoke so fondly of him. Eventually we ended up doing our Masters together and every week after our lectures Jason, Laura and I would sit around for hours chatting until we either got told to go home or we got hungry. We eventually got into the habit of going for dinner every week. Jason would regularly order a Peshwari naan and so our nickname for him stuck - Pesh. We would talk for hours about nothing and everything at the same time, but mainly we shared our hopes of making the world a better place. I am so thankful for those Thursdays - those conversations shaped how I feel about the purpose and power of education and he was one of my biggest inspirations. He said so often that all he ever wanted to do was help people and do good in this world. Eventually I started teaching and Jason featured regularly in my assemblies - I spoke of him as being a role model to us all because I had watched Jason work hard, serve from his heart and above all...always, always...he was kind.
I am devastated that we will never have another dinner with Pesh and I only hope that we all continue to work towards Jason's vision - to make the world a better place with love and kindness central to everything we do.
Claire
We met at St Mary's University
I often look back over those formative years. Those days when we were sure we knew, but truly, we didn’t. Figuring out the world, taking on ever-growing responsibilities, and making simple choices that somehow felt like the whole weight of the world rested on them.
We knew nothing, but amongst us all, the rabble that was often referred to as ‘the football boys’ was a soul so mature that we didn’t quite understand what we were witnessing.
Speaking only for myself, I knew I was in the presence of a pure heart and an enlightened soul. He was a true gentleman - classic, with a modern-day enlightenment. A combination so rare 20 years ago.
I never quite got it…til one day, he and I sat at my kitchen table and he shared with me, for the very first time, his journey. The elective mutism, and how observation became his secret weapon. How his silence never affected his ability to engage with and understand the world around him.
I cherish the memories of those rare moments alone I had with him. I never left those encounters empty of knowledge or inspiration.
Jason Arday was one of one. And I know I am proud that I get to say he was a friend of mine throughout my journey, but even more blessed to know that I was a character throughout his. 🙏🏿
Olamide Ajayi (Aj)
University friends
I met Jason when he lectured at a Pathways session in the first year of my PhD at Cambridge. While other sessions were somewhat formulaic, Jason immediately brought a burst of life into the classroom, where he climbed on the desk to talk about hierarchy and power. It was profoundly refreshing to experience such care, honesty, and energy from a Professor. Three years later, this memory still marks a rare bright moment from my time in academia.
Later that year, I co-chaired the Kaleidoscope graduate student conference in education at the faculty, and we invited Jason to keynote. In our planning conversations, he said that he always prioritized these opportunities to be student-facing, viewing them as the most impactful experiences in his role. He delivered an amazing and inspirational speech that day, which I heard people say was unlike any keynote they had witnessed. Afterwards, we spoke about the importance of providing good food in academic spaces and how comforting, nourishing, warm meals ought to be valued more. He reminded us of the importance of what we were doing (as 1st year and MPhil students) and thanked us for the cards and flowers, which he mentioned was rare to receive in a professional role.
I will never forget the hope and light he brought to a space of frequent stress, isolation, competitiveness, and violence, when young students needed most to see an example of another way to be. Jason, you deserved so much more. Your impact ran deep. We are heartbroken, and send much love to your loved ones.
Linh
PhD student
The first time I saw Jason Arday, I was in crisis.
My mental health had become very bad during my first six months at university. I didn’t understand what was happening to me at the time, and what I now understand to have been undiagnosed neurodivergence was being treated simply as depression. I was prescribed medication that was completely unsuitable for me, and at that point I was in an extremely distressed and frightening place.
For one reason or another, I found myself in an office with a lecturer. I was crying, shaking, speaking openly and loudly, completely overwhelmed. There was nobody else there, so I wasn’t thinking about who might hear me.
And then I looked to my side.
Jason had walked into the office to help the lecturer with something.
He didn’t say a word. We just looked at each other, both completely like rabbits in headlights. He realised what he’d walked in on; I realised what he’d walked in on. I knew exactly what words he had heard me say.
My lecturer said they would speak to him afterwards and Jason left.
But I immediately became even more distressed. I was saying, “Oh my God. He heard. He heard everything. I’m so embarrassed. What if he tells everybody.”
And my lecturer said:
“I can promise you — of all people, Jason will not judge you for this. He will understand. I can PROMISE you.”
That was the first time I saw Jason.
Anon
I was in the same year as Jason at university, many moons ago
I saw Jason Arday give a keynote at the Social Research Association conference last month. His talk was passionate, inclusive, humorous, and inspiring, with no sign of the storm raging around him except that he asked for his keynote not to be recorded. He spoke about the value of finding the good in people, and how the official research ethics system is weaponised to silence under-served groups, and the importance of kindness.
Later, as I left the building, I saw him a few steps ahead of me and asked politely if I could walk with him to the tube. He gave me a warm smile and asked me to call him Jason. I told him about a journal article I had written with Lucy Pickering about research ethics reform, which reflected some of the points he had made in his talk about research ethics, and asked if I could send it to him. He welcomed my request, and we talked non-stop, to the station and on the train. He asked me to keep in touch, and said something about needing to find his people outside academia; I said I would be glad to help with that. As the train was arriving into King’s Cross, he stood up and grasped my hand warmly, and told me to keep doing what I’m doing. I said the same back to him.
I emailed him at Cambridge the next day. After a couple of weeks I wrote to him at Cambridge. Then I heard about his resignation, and I was preparing a letter to send to him via his agent when I heard the news that he had died.
I am very sad that I never got the chance to offer him support, that we were never able to be colleagues or friends. But I am very glad I did get to meet him, even though it was just that one time. I was so grateful for his warmth, openness, collegiality, and kindness. I will do all I can to pay that forward.
Helen Kara
I met him at the Social Research Association conference, July 2026
I reached out to Jason as we were beginning to build the 100 Black Women Professors NOW programme.
He was warm and very supportive. He made me feel relaxed and comfortable as he explained complex views on race and the sector. He provided guidance and support in a way that was respectful and meaningful. What’s more he was a lovely and interesting man who I really enjoyed talking to.
As soon as we moved to WhatsApp, we would exchange voice notes every so often. His voice was friendly and calm and always he began with ‘how are you my friend’ or end with ‘and more importantly, how are you my friend’.
We talked about music, our children, race, the sector and working too hard.
I felt honoured to become friends with him.
We were in less contact whilst he was at Cambridge but I felt incredibly proud of him, first when he started appearing the in the press, and then when I saw him on panels and as special guests at conferences and events across the sector.
Looking back, it was a privilege to know Jason and to exchange thoughts with him.
In one message after he’d become a professor, I said ‘yes prof’ to him and he send me a voicenote back laughing and saying friends just call me Jason.
I assumed he was going to change the world far beyond academia and that this was just a part of his journey as he was capable and destined for much greater.
I listened back to our messages on my way home from the vigil this week. A journey I would have never ever wanted to make.
Alice Chilver
He supported me
Jason started every email 'How are you my friend?'. He facilitated conversations in a warm and open way and he said that his starting point was to assume that people did know the answers - precisely because he had been on the receiving end of so much doubt about his knowledge and understanding throughout his life. He could create a sense of community very quickly. I learned a lot from him about how to do that.
Amo
I arranged for Jason to deliver training at my university
I met Jason at Durham whilst doing my PhD as a mature student. I have a professional background working with people with epilepsy and also autistic children
We had many conversations about living with, and experiences of disability including Jason’s own and continuing challenges, including with epilepsy.
His insights informed and inspired my own research. His warmth and kindness, his sense of fun and the way he made you feel that he was genuinely interested in you and your work were very special qualities.
I took the opportunity to go to some of Jason’s talks about his own work and it opened up my thinking and my horizons; this is surely one of the most important impacts of a good teacher?
Covid sadly intervened and our paths no longer crossed and he then moved to a new post. I have always remembered the positive impact of this man who was so full of love, who was so proud of his family and who shone for me like a beacon.
To begin my goodbye to him with the same words he used to use to start his emails to me My friend…
you will be so missed. Know you made a real and positive difference to so many people. RIP
Carol
PhD student at Durham
Prof. Jason reminded me that we first met at a job interview going for the same role. Reflecting on our first time meeting, whilst waiting to be called in, he struck up conversation. In that waiting room, we spoke about our research and before he was called in for his interview (his was before mine) he wished me luck for my interview! Someone I was ‘competing’ with for the role! Genuine well-wishing?!!? No ego?!?! That stood out to me. The genuine openness, warmth and curiosity I experienced on that day was consistent over the (almost) decade I knew him. His thoughtfulness, sensitivity and ability to care were definitely his superpower.
Throughout the time I knew him, even in our recent conversation this summer, that I am now even more grateful for, he remained the same, thoughtful, kind and caring person. Rest in Power Jason. As an ancestor, your message of love now extends beyond space and time. Your essence cannot be contained.
Anonymous
Colleague and friend
I had the pleasure of working with Leading Routes quite a few times as their event photographer and during that journey, I was lucky enough to meet and photograph Jason Arday twice. He had an absolutely brilliant smile that was a photographer's dream to capture and he was so lovely to talk to. When I took the team headshots, often it takes a few minutes to warm people up for their photo and I need to take quite a few photos before I get a geniune smile. Jason was so easy to talk to his smile came easily and naturally. He was a joy to photograph.
Amanda
I met him while photographing the Leading Routes team
Thank you so much to the students behind this website for doing this.
I met Jason many years ago, not in a professional capacity but as a family friend. He had a goodness that shone out of him. We spoke about poetry - I was a poet, and even this shows you who he was in the way he encouraged and took interest in others. He enthusiastically told me we need more women of colour's voices, which made me feel seen, and welcomed, and intrinsically and implicitly like my voice mattered.
I write for children now, and in every part of my work I try to say to young people: your voice matters. I recognised Jason as a kindred spirit in that we shared that desire to bring others up, and what a gift it is to give: to believe in others and champion them. Reading this website I am so moved by every single person who is lending their voice to speak everything good about a wonderful, kind, gentle, passionate soul.
I feel so deeply heartbroken at this phenomenal loss and deep injustice. My love is with his family, friends and all who knew him. May we honour him and his legacy. Rest in peace and power Jason. Your voice always did, and always will, matter.
Nadine Aisha Jassat
Through family
My niece was in two minds if to continue her studies at Cambridge. She was struggling with her mental health and questioning if she fit into Cambridge. Dr Arday made time for her, guided her at a difficult time, gave her so much encouragement to not give up and she had a gift. It was his words encouragement and faith in her that got her through. He would remind her she had a purpose and something valuable to bring. Dr arday was a dedicated lecturer who saw his students as human and ignited deep enquiry and great love for knowledge. She's a graduate now and was saddened hearing his passing and so where we as we knew how significant a role he played in her journey.
May
He taught my niece
I met Jason at an event at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge - Black Men on the Couch - back in 2024. He spoke of his story & what struck me was his genuine joy at meeting me. Me! I was in awe of meeting this amazing, softly spoken, eloquent man & he gave me the impression he was more impressed at meeting me. He signed the book I'd bought at the event & wrote 'Anita, you are amazing'. No, Professor. You're amazing.
Anita Macdonald
I met him at an event in Cambridge
I had the pleasure of listening to Dr Jason Arday talk about his experiences at a festival.
Afterwards, my wife and I approached him. We had both recently failed our MA in Autism, due to lack of support.
As a black, higher support needs person who had faced barriers in academia, I felt a kinship with Jason. We had a conversation about how the system puts people like us at a disadvantage. He was so gentle and listened well.
He gave me his number and email, so we could talk more about how higher education could be more accessible.
Life got in the way and I never managed to contact him before his death, but he had such a profound impact on my life and made me feel heard.
Eli
Met him at an event
I knew of Professor Arday’s work throughout my academic and professional journey in Sociology, Education and Social Justice, citing him in much of my research and consultation submissions. His achievement as the youngest Black Professor of Education at Cambridge inspired me to apply for my PhD, as I naively assumed Cambridge must be a progressive institution! I got in and was in communication with Prof’ Arday to become my mentor and advisor. Every email from him was encouraging and uplifting and I couldn’t wait to work with him. However I knew he was being targeted for years as he didn’t come to many activist events in person due to fears for his safety, although he continued to speak out and share his experience and knowledge willingly. I finally met him at his book launch on being Black and neurodivergent and spoke to him, explaining I was emailing him about PhD and was inspired by his work. His smile and kind words of encouragement uplifted me in a rare way that most people dont/cant do. He used words like ‘honour’ to meet me and work with me which he also signed in my book- making me feel like I was special, when the honour was really all mine! The time and care he poured into each individual interaction despite it being busy was truly unique. I left even more excited to work with him. Speaking to all my peers who knew him our experience of his kind, gentle and giving nature are shared- I wish others had even an ounce of Prof’ Arday’s kindness and generosity, and I wish I would be would be being welcomed to the Faculty by his smile!
Afro-Brit
Educator, activist and incoming PhD student at the Faculty
I was briefly introduced to Jason through a student of his at St Mary’s university. This student experienced many challenges mainly personal which massively impacted their confidence, self-esteem and ability to view situations with an openness required to make necessary decisions and most importantly progress. However, I can recall on countless occasions Jason calling them to guide them, mentor and help them to make that transition from trauma based behaviours to positive change. The calls sometimes lasted hours and I’d hear him pleading, listening and talking to that person in a way they had never experienced before. The impact it had meant they finished with their degree and having Jason quietly coaching and mentoring them in the background was something they often was spoke about and was externally grateful. Years later I heard of his success and as an educator and used Jason as a role model for students highlighting the incredible achievements of a black, neurodiverse, man. He became a source of inspiration for students and myself personally having a neurodiverse child.
His unwavering commitment and support to others was simply extraordinary.
I have been a witness to the impact he had on others both personally and professionally.
Professor Jason Arday is a rare individual who gave himself to others through genuine kindness and compassion. His light will forever shine and his work continue to inspire.
Thank you for the indirect impact you had on my life. May God bless your family with strength and peace. Rest in power Professor Jason Arday.
Anonymous
He mentored someone I was very close to
Jason, you leave a legacy of wonder, hope and self belief. I had the pleasure of being on a panel with you speaking about the decolonisation of social work education. My camera would not work so I could only join via audio. You sent me a supportive message and thanked me for sharing the platform with you. Unashamedly, I was in awe of you.
You were a gentle soul, passionate and dedicated. You uplifted those around you and created hope and showed what it meant to believe in oneself.
The news of your passing arose the same feelings when Stephen Lawrence passed. Yet I know you will rest in perfect peace and as you carried the Olympic torch - we will carry you as you continue to light the path for our future. Glass ceilings will continue to shatter and barriers will continue to be broken in your name.
Charmaine Malcolm
We were on a panel together
Meeting and working with Jason has been the highlight of my career. As a brown disabled woman working as a changemaker in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, I felt seen, encouraged and held in the Light as those of us from Quaker backgrounds say... I managed and coordinated a Lightbulb event at Anglia Ruskin University to explore neurodiversity, race and education featuring Professor Jason Arday. His extraordinary kindness, brilliance and humanity transmitted to everyone at the end and online. Inspiring us all with his stories, his wisdom and his ability to sit alongside the challenges and still believe in kindness and our power to create a better world. It was a very special event and Jason took time to speak to people afterwards with his customary generosity, even though he needed to travel to be a keynote speaker at a conference the following day. Jason spoke of his family with love and I send my deepest condolences and prayers to you after this tragic and terrible loss. He was and is much loved. I considered Jason a friend, and after I left Anglia Ruskin University, we were looking for opportunities to work together again. Rest in power my friend.
Nilima Banerji
I was the event lead for a session featuring Jason
I met Jason when I worked at the University of Cambridge. I attended a panel event with my colleague Anita. Jason was on the panel along with many other inspirational speakers. Chatting with Jason later I found a humble, genuine and gentle person with an infectious smile. It was such a joy to briefly connect. Thank you Jason.
Tammy Dougan
Working at the University of Cambridge
His lectures never disappointed, unlike many of our lectures where the room would be half empty, everyone always came on time and filled the room. He recognised each of us and learned about who we were. I always felt seen, respected and uplifted around him. Around college he would always smile at me and stop me for conversation. He genuinely cared about what he taught and how he taught it. In a time where I grown used to the isolation that is being black in that environment he brought a breath of fresh air and made me strive to achieve.
He will be missed, my thoughts are with his family.
Anonymous
Former student at Cambridge
Jason operated with the sort of kindness that was infectious. In everything he did, he made sure to do so with care and gentleness. He taught me many things for which I am eternally grateful but above all he maintained that the only thing on this Earth that was truly eternal, was love.
His intellect was a gift, he was captivating, when he would speak the whole room would hang on to his every word as though they were precious- because they were. I can only wish that I asked him more questions, and that we had more time with him and his unique and overwhelming genius.
I am so lucky to have known Professor Jason Atta Kwei Arday and to have shared in his wisdom, even if only for a moment. Rest in power, sweet Jason, we are thinking of you always.
Anonymous
Undergraduate, Cambridge
Jason was the kindest, gentlest soul with a beautiful smile. He was the kind of person who knew and had time for everyone. I remember being so in awe of what he had over come and his support of charity, always giving back to others.
I have been deeply troubled by the disparity between my lasting impression of him and what has been portrayed in the media.
May we remember the true Jason and the legacy he leaves behind, which I am sure will live on for generations to come.
Anonymous
We were in the same year at St Mary's University
I met Jason on a number of occasions, mainly in the context of inequities and inequalities for African and Caribbean heritage academics. He spoke so eloquently about the struggles faced by outstanding women who were unable to progress along the same path as their white counterparts despite. His death was beyond shocking and the impact that it has had upon my own confidence to even remain in academia, is profound. Jason understood the unjust manner with which many Black employees are treated, across many disciplines and institutions. Jason you will be missed, you deserved better. My thoughts are with his family.
Anonymous
He was a colleague and advocate
I worked in a different School to Jason so didn't know him well, but I do remember him, particularly when he came back to give a workshop for staff after he'd moved on. He left an impression on me as someone who was brilliant intellectually, as well as gentle and generous. Reading these other testimonies, I'm going to try to be more like Jason with my students.
Sara
A colleague at Roehampton
Jason was an incredibly gentle man and one I thoroughly enjoyed speaking to at Uni. I use him as a stimulus for overcoming as part of AQA/OCR Drama. I remember the conversations we had
Jenny Acheson
I went to St Mary's with him; he was AU President in my second year
Jason, aside from being one of the smartest minds I know, was a truly compassionate person with a genuine care for others, their needs and interests. His thoughtfulness and kind approach to everyone, whether student, friend, colleague or stranger shone through in every aspect of his life and those who are lucky to have known him truly will always be changed by that. The world, academic and wider, will miss his mind, his heart and his ever-loving soul.
Dan S
Met Jason whilst at St Mary's
I saw Prof. Jason Arday speak at the British Sociological Association, and was struck by his warmth, wit and eloquence. He really listened to and engaged with audience members who asked questions and offered their perspectives, which shouldn’t be a rarity but can be at academic conferences where too many people are clamouring to look clever, sought after or important, rather than actually hearing one another.
Katherine
Saw him as a keynote speaker