The College of Computing honors the lives and legacies of three members of our community whose passion for learning, teaching, and service left a lasting impact on Grand Valley State University. We remember Dr. Jerry Scripps, Dr. Jamal Alsabbagh, and Oscar Makumba with gratitude for their contributions and extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, colleagues, and classmates.

Dr. Jerry Scripps was a respected educator, mentor, and innovator whose work helped shape graduate computing education at GVSU.

As the founding program director of the Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics, Jerry was instrumental in developing the program and establishing the strong foundation it continues to build upon today. A Fulbright Scholar, he also taught abroad in Austria which was an experience he often described as one of the highlights of his career.

After retiring from the College of Computing, Jerry embraced a new chapter by completing GVSU's Second Degree Nursing program and recently becoming a registered nurse. His lifelong commitment to learning and serving others reflected the curiosity, compassion, and generosity that defined his career.

Jerry's legacy lives on through the programs he helped build, the students he mentored, and the many colleagues and friends whose lives he touched.

Dr. Jamal Alsabbagh devoted more than two decades to educating and mentoring students while helping strengthen computing education at GVSU.

Jamal joined the School of Computing faculty in 2000 and served until his retirement in 2023. Throughout his career, he was known for his dedication to teaching, his expertise in computer science, and his unwavering support of students. Before joining GVSU, he earned his Ph.D. in computer science with an emphasis in databases and taught at Grambling State University.

Jamal will be remembered for his kindness, generosity as a colleague, and the lasting influence he had on the students and community he served.

Oscar Makumba was a master's student in Cybersecurity whose presence was valued by classmates, faculty, and the broader GVSU community.

Originally from Kenya, Oscar joined Grand Valley in Fall 2024 to pursue graduate studies in cybersecurity. His commitment to learning and his determination to build a future through computing made him a valued member of our community.

Oscar's passing is deeply felt by all who knew him. We honor his memory and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, fellow students, and loved ones.

The College of Computing extends its sincere sympathies to the families, friends, colleagues, and classmates of Jerry, Jamal, and Oscar. Their contributions, kindness, and commitment to learning will continue to be remembered throughout our community.