The sudden and violent death of Dr. Cameisha Denise Clark, an esteemed alumnus and college dean at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood, California, has left her family and community in mourning. FOX5 Atlanta reported that Dr. Clark, who had been recently celebrated for her professional accomplishments, succumbed to injuries on May 2 after a shooting incident on her workplace's campus.
Dr. Clark's alleged assailant, 40-year-old Jesse Figueroa, a former security guard, was arrested and faces multiple charges, including murder and attempted murder. Figueroa was charged after Clark and her receptionist were shot on campus in what has been described as "an apparent act of workplace violence." Details about Figueroa's motive remain undisclosed. Clark's illustrious career milestones and vibrant personality were reflected in the words of her aunt, who in a statement obtained by FOX5 Atlanta, described the tragedy as a nightmare from which they are all trying to wake up.
Further honoring her legacy, Clark Atlanta University (CAU) announced a new scholarship fund in Dr. Clark's name and plans to honor her memory at the Baccalaureate service on Saturday May 17, according to a report by 11Alive. Renowned for her dedication to education, Dr. Clark had earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and a doctorate from CAU, and was a proud member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.
Amidst the outpouring of grief, the family released an impassioned statement on Facebook, emphasizing Dr. Clark’s compassionate nature and impactful presence. She was lauded as radiant, joyful, and a pillar of integrity. "Cameisha was the most compassionate, loving and fiercely loyal person," the family conveyed, expressing gratitude for the support received following their profound loss. The statement, featured by 11Alive, also addressed an incident of misinformation by CBS affiliate K-CAL, which prematurely declared Clark brain-dead, requesting a focus on Dr. Clark's story and legacy moving forward.
As the legal proceedings against Figueroa approach, with his arraignment set for May 7, the community remains focused on the fond memories of Dr. Clark. "I am going to remember her light! She was the light," Dr. Clark's mother said in an interview with FOX5 Atlanta. The family will gather for a funeral service at Cascade United Methodist Church, although the exact date still to be determined.
