Dear Gandhi Institute community,

It is with profound sadness that we share that our colleague and friend Michael Jones died unexpectedly on Saturday, August 29.

Michael joined the Gandhi Institute staff in 2022 and became a deeply valued part of our community. He brought warmth, dedication, creativity, and care to his work and to the people around him.

Michael’s life and contributions extended far beyond the Institute. He taught classical guitar to young people throughout Rochester, sharing a lifelong love of music with his students, and was deeply involved in Rochester’s CrossFit community. Across these different parts of his life, Michael formed relationships with an extraordinary range of people.

His death has left our staff and Board of Directors shocked and grieving. We know this news will also be painful for the many people whose lives intersected with his—as colleagues, students, friends, training partners, and loved ones.

Our hearts are with Michael’s family and with everyone who loved him. We will share information about services and opportunities to honor Michael’s life when it becomes available and is appropriate to share. In the meantime, we ask for patience and grace as his family, our staff, and the wider community begin to process this loss.

Michael gave generously of himself—to the Gandhi Institute, to Rochester, and to the people fortunate enough to know him. His absence is deeply felt. We miss him enormously.

With sorrow and gratitude for Michael’s life,  

         Erin Thompson

         Executive Director on behalf of the staff and Board of Directors