Dear Albertus Magnus College Students, Faculty, and Staff,

It is with an aching heart I write to you to share the tragic news of the passing of Albertus alumnus, Jaqhawn Walters ’18, who died from gunshot wounds earlier today in Hartford. For those of us fortunate enough to know Jaqhawn, or “JQ” as he was affectionately known to so many, we remember his beaming smile and larger than life personality, bringing joy to everyone around him, whether it was on the basketball court, in the classroom, or in spaces across our campus. Having been around men’s college basketball at the most competitive NCAA Division I levels, when I arrived at Albertus and watched Jaqhawn play during his senior season and my first year at the College, I just couldn’t help but admire the way he gave 110% at both ends of the court, and he always played with a smile on his face. I am including with this message a picture, a wonderful memory from our Commencement Ceremony in 2018, when Jaqhawn received his Albertus degree and we embraced in a warm hug.

As we pray for Jaqhawn and his family, let us remember his warm heart and spirit. Jaqhawn’s life was ended too early, and we feel loss and anger. But let us heed the prayers of Pope Francis, as he reminds us, “We ask the risen Jesus, who turns death into life, to change hatred into love, vengeance into forgiveness, war into peace. Yes, Christ is our peace, and through him to implore peace for all the world.”

In the week ahead we will celebrate Founders Day, in honor of the Dominican Sisters who answered a call and need in 1925, beginning a legacy that now dates 95 years, a legacy that includes so many women and men who having attended Albertus Magnus College, changed their lives and the lives of those around them for the better. Our dear alumnus, Jaqhawn, was a young man who came to Albertus, earned his degree and in doing so, brought greater joy to all those around him. I anticipate that we will offer a prayer service in memory of Jaqhawn, likely on Tuesday. Monday is the International Day of Peace, which is a call to all of us to make efforts to live in peace and care for one another, one person at a time. Let us praise peace, promote peace, and let us bring comfort and care to each member of our Albertus Magnus College family, and our brothers and sisters near and far. I offer prayers to Jaqhawn, his family, his friends, and to all those who mourn within our Albertus community.

In peace,

Marc M. Camille, Ed.D.