.209 Jerrod Johnson

I wish everyone could have had Jerrod as a friend in high school. He made people feel welcome and seen ,and it’s that unconditional support from him that I appreciate to this day. As a friend and as a teammate, Jerrod is someone I could and can always rely on. His loyalty and trustworthiness are matched only by his astute character and goofball personality.

Jerrod truly was someone who got me through some of high school’s biggest lows, most of the time without him even realizing it. He was always honest with me, both when I was being too much, but also when he knew I needed some encouragement. Me coming out as gay didn’t change anything about our relationship, but what’s more is that Jerrod realized how important that moment and journey was for me, and so he always respected that process and space. He’s an incredible listener, capable of focusing and providing feedback in a compassionate way. He’s also downright hilarious, and I genuinely loved every minute we played soccer together or when we hung out off the field. Even just seeing him around campus was enough to cheer me up and give me some comfort. Another way to put all of this is that Jerrod is a gentleman. He’s kind, diligent, wildly intelligent, and wonderfully empathetic.

Jerrod, thank you so much for being such a great friend and for still knowing how to make me laugh. Thank you for your fabulous sense of humor and for always looking out for those in your life. Thank you for your honesty and integrity. Thank you for taking the time to listen and thank you for your unwavering support both in high school and now. I’m so grateful for you and I know so many others we are as well. Thank you, Jerrod, for being you.

-BD