In Loving Memory of Mabentie Jabbie: A Heartbreaking Loss to Xavier University of Louisiana Community
The Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA) community is reeling from the devastating loss of Mabentie Jabbie, a bright and promising student whose life was tragically cut short by suicide. Mabentie, who was just 21 years old, passed away on April 7, 2025, leaving behind a community of friends, family, professors, and classmates who are struggling to make sense of a loss that has left a profound impact.
A Life Full of Promise and Potential
Mabentie Jabbie was an outstanding student at Xavier University of Louisiana, a historically Black university that prides itself on nurturing the next generation of leaders. Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, Mabentie was known for her intelligence, dedication, and drive. She had a passion for education and was committed to achieving her goals, and her potential seemed limitless. Whether it was in the classroom, where she consistently excelled, or within the broader university community, Mabentie left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.
Her friends remember her as a kind and thoughtful person, always willing to lend a hand or offer words of encouragement. Mabentie was known for her infectious smile and her ability to bring people together. She had an energy that made her stand out, and she was loved by all who knew her.
“She was a bright light in every room,” said Tierra Williams, one of Mabentie’s close friends. “She was always so full of life and had this way of making everything feel like it was going to be okay. I just can’t believe she’s gone. This doesn’t feel real.”
Struggling in Silence
Mabentie’s passing has raised difficult but necessary conversations surrounding mental health, particularly within the college community. Though she had the support of her friends, family, and professors, Mabentie, like so many others, may have been silently struggling with the pressures of school, personal life, and the mental and emotional challenges that many young adults face. The complexities of balancing academic expectations, social pressures, and internal battles can sometimes become overwhelming, and for Mabentie, these pressures tragically became too much to bear.
Xavier University of Louisiana has released a statement expressing its deep sorrow and offering condolences to the Jabbie family. The statement also highlights the importance of mental health awareness and the university’s commitment to providing resources and support for students in need.
“Mabentie was a beloved member of our community, and we are devastated by this loss,” the statement reads. “Her presence brightened our campus, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. We recognize the importance of mental health, and we encourage all students to seek support when needed. We are here for our students, and our hearts go out to Mabentie’s family during this difficult time.”
A Devastating Impact on Her Family and Friends
Mabentie’s family is understandably heartbroken by the loss of their daughter, sister, and loved one. Her parents, who were immensely proud of her achievements and her bright future, are now left with the painful task of navigating life without her.
“We are shattered by the loss of our precious daughter,” said Mabentie’s mother in a statement. “She was everything to us, and we are struggling to understand why she felt she had no other way out. Mabentie was loved deeply, and we hope that her death serves as a reminder to everyone that there is always help and support available, no matter how alone you may feel.”
Her father, Thomas Jabbie, also expressed his grief. “She was a beautiful person inside and out. We are so proud of everything she accomplished, and we wish she had known how many people loved and cared for her. Please, if you are struggling, reach out to someone—don’t suffer in silence. No one should ever feel that they are alone.”
Mabentie’s friends, too, are struggling to come to terms with her death. The news of her passing has sent shockwaves through her tight-knit circle of classmates and peers. Many of them are grappling with feelings of confusion, disbelief, and helplessness. They remember Mabentie as someone who would always listen, someone who always made sure that her friends felt heard and supported.
“I feel like a part of me is gone,” said Jameson Harris, another close friend. “She was one of the most caring people I’ve ever met. It just doesn’t make sense. I wish I could have done more to help her, to let her know that she wasn’t alone.”
Addressing the Need for Mental Health Support
Mabentie’s tragic death is a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness, particularly in college and university settings, where young people are often navigating complex and overwhelming transitions in their lives. It is critical that educational institutions, families, and communities come together to provide resources and support systems to help students cope with mental health challenges.
Xavier University has emphasized its commitment to mental health resources, including counseling services, peer support programs, and outreach initiatives aimed at destigmatizing mental health struggles and encouraging students to seek help.
The university has urged all students to take advantage of the services offered, including the XULA Counseling Center, which provides confidential counseling and support. Students are also encouraged to reach out to trusted faculty, staff, or friends when they feel they need someone to talk to.
“Mabentie’s passing underscores the need for open conversations about mental health,” said Dr. Karen Lee, the director of the counseling center. “We want our students to know that they are not alone, that there is always someone here who cares, and that it’s okay to ask for help. No one should have to face their struggles alone.”
Remembering Mabentie
In honor of Mabentie’s life and legacy, friends and family are planning a memorial service to celebrate her memory and the impact she made on everyone she encountered. The service will be a time for her loved ones to come together, reflect on the joy she brought to their lives, and support one another during this difficult time.
The service will be held at Xavier University of Louisiana’s University Center on April 14, 2025, and will be open to the public. A memorial fund will also be established in Mabentie’s name, with proceeds going toward mental health awareness initiatives and support programs for college students in need.
Final Thoughts: A Call for Compassion and Understanding
Mabentie Jabbie’s tragic passing is a heart-wrenching loss, and her family, friends, and the Xavier University of Louisiana community are left to mourn the untimely death of a young woman with so much to offer the world. Her story is a reminder of the importance of reaching out, of offering compassion, and of being there for one another in times of need.
We encourage anyone who may be struggling with their mental health to seek support, whether it’s through a counselor, a trusted friend, or a mental health professional. It’s important to remember that you are not alone, and there is always hope, even in the darkest moments.
Rest in peace, Mabentie. Your light will forever shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.