21-year-old dies while saving sister from capsized kayak
North Carolina A&T State University senior Dorian Jackson died while saving his sister from drowning
Grief and shock spilled across Greensboro, North Carolina, on Monday afternoon as 21-year-old Dorian Jackson died while saving his sister after her kayak capsized at Lake Norman. Jackson is one of eight children and is the oldest.
For Jenard Moore, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s director of student success and retention for the Willie A. Deese College of Business and Economics, Jackson was more than a student. He was a hardworking leader with a bright future and a presence that could light up a room.
“He was just a gentle giant, an amazing student. I’ve known him since his freshman year,” Moore said.
Moore described Jackson as a hard worker who approached every task with enthusiasm.
“Dorian was an extremely hard worker. He’s the type of individual who jumped in headfirst with any task, would roll up his sleeves,” Moore said.
Moore said Jackson was also known for inspiring his peers to strive for excellence.
“He was the one that wanted to challenge his peers to reach new heights, and so with him already having a job lined up, it just speaks volumes to him as an individual,” Moore said.
Jackson graduated from Dudley High School, where he was named “Mr. Dudley” during his senior year. A third-generation Aggie, he became a leader in A&T’s Honors College and Student Government Association. He was also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and participated in the Thurgood Marshall College Fund program.
Moore recalled his last conversation with Jackson during a career fair last week.
“Our last conversation, I said, ‘What do you guys want to get from the career fair?’ And Dorian said, ‘I want to secure the bag,’ which I’m like, ‘Dorian, you already have the bag secured, man.’ But it just goes to show his eagerness to continue to push himself,” Moore said.
Jackson had a job lined up with Wells Fargo upon graduating from A&T.
Although Jackson’s presence will be missed, Moore emphasized the enduring impact of his legacy.
“To be like Dorian, to roll your sleeves up, to leave your mark not only at A&T but in the world,” Moore said.
Jackson leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond his family to everyone he influenced.
A Meal Train has been organized to support his parents and siblings, and you can also donate by clicking here.
