With Great Sadness…

On behalf of the Laurel Civic Board of Directors, our Executive Director, Peter M. Casamento, our Executive Director Emeritus, Sandra Terry, and the entire Laurel Civic staff, it is with great sadness that I announce the passing of board member John Jefferson.

John Jefferson

John was a 24 year Navy veteran. Before becoming a member of the Laurel Civic Board, John was the Youth Programs Coordinator for nearly 22 years. He oversaw the After School Homework Assistance Program as well as the Summer Teen Empowerment and Summer Reading Programs.

John was an incredibly dedicated and compassionate human being. The positive impact that John had on so many young lives is immeasurable. He taught the importance of respect, responsibility and accountability. He showed his students the power of education and perseverance. Graduates of John’s programs often returned to Laurel Civic to visit with him. Their success and their love for Laurel Civic was what fueled John’s passion.

John left us with a brighter vision for the future. We are all better people for having known John Jefferson. His spirit will be forever with our organization.

John, we thank you for your service to our country, and for your service to those in our community. To John’s wife Karen, and his family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Dr. John F. Mancini

Laurel Civic Board Chair