University community mourning the loss of well-liked sophomore

The Oakland University community is mourning the death of sophomore Corey Jackson of Warren, who according to the Oakland County Medical Examiner’s Office took his own life on Tuesday.

In a message to students on Wednesday, President Gary Russi acknowledged the great pain that Jackson’s family and friends are suffering, and appealed to the campus community to offer care and support to all those struck by the grief of this tragedy.

“In our mourning, I am hopeful that we will not focus on the manner of Corey's death, but rather celebrate the life he lived and the people he touched,” Russi wrote.

In that spirit, Oakland University students have organized a candlelight vigil for 10 p.m. this evening on the bridge that crosses Bear Lake. In song and in shared remembrances, students, faculty, staff, family and friends plan to celebrate Jackson’s life. The event is open to all.

Dave Tindall, Oakland University Housing’s assistant director for residence life, said that in supporting one another during this difficult time, students are stressing that those who knew Jackson not give harbor to feelings of regret or guilt over what might have been done to prevent his death. Rather, they feel it is important that family and friends focus on the good he brought into their lives. Tonight’s vigil will offer an opportunity for participants to share memories with each other, as well as to provide comfort and consolation.

This unfortunate and untimely circumstance has prompted university leaders to remind anyone in the campus community facing difficult life issues that help is available from a variety of sources.

Those struggling with news of Jackson’s death are encouraged to visit Graham Counseling Center, where counselors are prepared to provide grief counseling. More information is available by calling (248) 370-3465 or visiting oakland.edu/ghc.

Individuals dealing with other daunting, personal challenges are encouraged to take advantage of services offered by organizations listed in OU’s Community Resource Guide.