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Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Inglewood Educator

Vigil for Dr. Cameisha Clark with flowers and candles

News Summary

Dr. Cameisha Clark, the newly appointed dean of student affairs at Spartan College, was tragically shot and killed during a targeted attack at her workplace. The shooter, Jesse Figueroa, a former security guard, has been charged with murder and attempted murder. The incident has shocked the Inglewood community, highlighting the urgent need for discussions on gun violence in educational institutions. Dr. Clark, a proud CAU alumna and community advocate, is remembered for her dedication to her students and initiatives against gun violence.

Inglewood, California – Dr. Cameisha Clark, a 35-year-old educator and recently appointed dean of student affairs at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, was fatally shot at her workplace on May 2. The incident has left the Inglewood community in shock and mourning, as it also involved a receptionist who suffered injuries but is expected to recover. The shooting occurred in what authorities described as a targeted attack by Jesse Figueroa, a 40-year-old former security guard at the college.

Figueroa has been charged with murder and attempted murder in connection with the incident after allegedly disagreeing with a decision made by Clark. Law enforcement apprehended him several hours later and he has been held in custody with a bond set at $5.3 million. Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts acknowledged the targeted nature of the attack and praised the quick response of the police in capturing the suspect.

Dr. Clark was a proud alumnus of Clark Atlanta University (CAU), where she earned three degrees in various disciplines, including a bachelor’s in psychology, a master’s in social work, and a doctorate in higher educational leadership. Her contributions to higher education were recently recognized by CAU, where she was celebrated for her new role at Spartan College. This announcement about her recognition came earlier this year.

In addition to her academic achievements, Dr. Clark was deeply committed to her community, having founded a foundation called C Squared in Atlanta, which focused on advocacy against gun violence. Her family expressed deep sorrow at her loss, describing her as a compassionate individual devoted to her work and a source of joy for those around her. Clark was also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and had previously been a cheerleader at CAU.

Following the tragedy, CAU announced plans to honor Dr. Clark during its baccalaureate service on May 18, demonstrating their commitment to preserving her legacy. The university has also set up a $10,000 Dr. Cameisha Clark Scholarship Fund aimed at supporting education students, ensuring that her impact continues in the field of education.

This tragic event at Spartan College highlights an urgent conversation around gun violence in educational institutions and the broader implications it holds for society. The community’s response to the shooting indicates a shared sense of loss and a collective call for action to ensure the safety of students and faculty in educational environments.

Dr. Clark’s professional achievements, dedication to her students, and community advocacy marked her as a significant figure in her field. As the investigation into the shooting continues, her friends, family, and colleagues aim to remember and honor her contributions while grappling with the loss of a promising leader.