Remembering Professor Jason Arday

The University for the Creative Arts was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Professor Jason Arday.

Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, colleagues, students and everyone grieving his loss.

Although Professor Arday was not a member of the UCA community, his work and public presence resonated across higher education and beyond. As a prominent Black academic whose work addressed race, inequality and education, he helped bring greater visibility to questions of representation, belonging and opportunity within universities.

For many Black students, academics and professional services colleagues, seeing someone who shared aspects of their lived experience occupy a senior academic position carried genuine significance. It represented possibility, challenged assumptions about who belongs in higher education, and highlighted the continuing importance of visible Black leadership.

We recognise that the news of Professor Arday’s death, and the public discussion surrounding it, may have affected members of our community in different ways. For some, particularly Black students and colleagues, it may bring feelings of sadness, anger, vulnerability or exhaustion. It may also raise difficult questions about racism, public scrutiny, representation and the pressures experienced by people from underrepresented backgrounds.

These responses matter. They deserve to be heard and treated with compassion.

At UCA, we remain committed to building a university community where everyone feels valued, supported and able to belong. That commitment includes listening to the experiences of our Black students and staff, challenging racism and discrimination, and recognising that inclusion requires consistent action, meaningful allyship and care for one another.

We encourage students and colleagues to look out for one another and to seek support if this news, or the wider issues it raises, has affected them.

Support for students

UCA’s Wellbeing and Disability team can provide advice and help students access appropriate support, including counselling.

Reporting racism, discrimination or harassment

Students and staff who have experienced or witnessed racism, discrimination or harassment can access advice and report concerns through UCA Report + Support.

Professor Arday’s death is a profound loss to his family and to the many people whose lives and aspirations he touched. At this difficult time, we extend our deepest sympathies to those closest to him and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that members of our own community feel seen, heard and supported.

Best wishes,

Peter Hall
Head of Culture, Inclusion and Employee Experience