James Jackson (1944-2020)

Our dear friend, colleague, mentor, scholar, visionary, and titan at the University of Michigan, Professor James S. Jackson, passed away Tuesday evening, September 1st, in Ann Arbor after a long battle with cancer. He passed away peacefully with his wife, Toni, and daughters Ariana and Kendra by his side.

James Jackson was the Founder and Leader of the Program for Research on Black Americans. We, the current and past members of the Program for Research on Black Americans, are deeply saddened by the loss of one who has had such a profound and lasting impact on our professional and personal lives.

During his illustrious career, James was the Director of the Institute for Social Research, Director of the Center for African and African American Studies, member of the National Science Board and a past president of the Association of Black Psychologists and Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues.

Most importantly he was a mentor to numerous students, postdoctoral scholars, and junior faculty. His role in mentoring several generations of African American scholars cannot be overstated, both for its contribution to diversifying academia and enhancing knowledge on race and ethnicity in the U.S. James mentored students, post-docs and junior faculty in numerous fields including Psychology, Sociology, Public Health, Social Work, Political Science and Economics. His proteges have now become Deans, Associate Provosts, Department Chairs, Endowed Professors, and leaders in their fields of study.

Our deepest condolences to Toni Antonucci, daughters Kendra and Ariana and the many family, friends and colleagues who knew and learned from this great and brilliant scholar.

Further information about final arrangements and commemoration will be forthcoming.

A Conversation With James S. Jackson: November 25, 2014
https://www.psychologicalscience.org/observer/a-conversation-with-james-s-jackson