GREENSBORO, N.C. — North Carolina A&T State University is mourning the passing of civil rights icon and alumnus Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., who died peacefully Tuesday morning at 84.
Jackson’s family confirmed he passed away surrounded by loved ones. His death marks the end of a decades-long legacy of activism, political advocacy, and social justice leadership that influenced communities across the United States and beyond.
NC A&T Honors a Distinguished Alumnus
In a statement shared on its official Facebook page, North Carolina A&T State University expressed deep sorrow over Jackson’s passing.
“North Carolina A&T State University students, faculty, staff, and more than 70,000 alumni deeply mourn the passing of the Rev. Jesse Jackson ’64 – classmate, alumnus, global civil rights icon, and friend. His life was truly well-lived. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers go out to the Jackson family.”
University Chancellor James R. Martin II also issued a statement honoring Jackson’s impact.
“Aggie Nation mourns the loss of our friend and international force for equality and justice, the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. The indelible mark he left on our university and indeed, on all of us, is deeply felt this morning. Our hearts and prayers go out to the Jackson family and to all who knew him and benefitted from his life’s work.”
From Greensboro Student Leader to Global Civil Rights Figure
Born in Greenville, South Carolina, Jackson initially attended the University of Illinois before transferring to North Carolina A&T State University in 1960 — just four years after the historic Greensboro sit-ins.
While at A&T, Jackson served as student government president and quarterback for the Aggie football team. He graduated in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science degree in sociology.
His activism would later expand nationally through the founding of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, an organization advocating for civil rights, economic justice, and political empowerment.
Jackson went on to become one of the most recognizable civil rights leaders of his generation, working alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and later running two presidential campaigns in the 1980s.
Celebration of Life Arrangements
The Rainbow PUSH Coalition announced that details regarding Jackson’s Celebration of Life and related public events will be released in the coming days. Public observances are expected to be held in Chicago.
Connect With Us