Jason Arday Fundraiser Surpasses £150,000 Following Professor’s Tragic Death

​An online fundraising campaign established to support the family of the late Cambridge professor Jason Arday has rapidly surpassed £150,000, just days after his sudden death.

​Professor Arday, who made history in 2023 by becoming the University of Cambridge’s youngest ever Black professor, was found dead at an address in Battersea, south London, on Friday afternoon. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the 41-year-old’s death is being treated as unexpected, though it is not believed to be suspicious.

​The tragic news followed weeks of intense public scrutiny surrounding allegations regarding aspects of his academic career and PhD thesis, which led to his resignation as professor of the sociology of education earlier this month. While Mr Arday disputed the allegations and maintained that he was not a “liar,” he acknowledged accountability for errors in his early work, attributing some mistakes to his autism.

​In response to the tragedy, Windrush campaigner Sir Patrick Vernon launched a GoFundMe initiative to assist Professor Arday’s family with funeral, memorial, and associated practical costs. The initial target of £50,000 was met and swiftly doubled as tributes and contributions poured in from across the globe.

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​In a joint statement issued through the fundraiser, Professor Arday’s family expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support:

​”Whilst no sum of money will ever bring him back to us, the generosity you have shown is helping to ease some of the practical pressures we face while we try to come to terms with our loss. It has brought us some comfort to hear from the many people whose lives Jason touched as a family member, friend, colleague, teacher, academic, author or advocate.”

​A public vigil is scheduled to take place on Monday evening on the steps of the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square to honor his life, academic achievements, and contributions to education and advocacy.

​If you or someone you know is struggling or in distress, help is available. In the UK and Ireland, the Samaritans can be reached 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 116 123, or via email at jo@samaritans.org.