Valencia Clemons-Bush, a 2018 Mizzou Law graduate, passed away on October 3, 2024. Valencia‘s life was a testament to strength, perseverance, and inspiration, and her character was an inspiration to everyone she encountered. Genuine and sincere, Valencia showed a kindness that touched the lives of many. She was equally tough when life demanded it, always standing firm in her beliefs and championing the causes of those who could not speak for themselves. She was a role model to those who knew her, showing through her own life that strength and grace could coexist in even the most challenging times.
Valencia‘s law school journey was a testament to perseverance. Diagnosed with breast cancer during her first year, she faced numerous rounds of chemotherapy, radiation treatment, and surgeries. Despite these challenges, she graduated on time in 2018 and left a mark on her peers and professors alike. She served as president of the Black Law Student Association, earned a place on the Thurgood Marshall mock trial team, and contributed to the Business Entrepreneurship and Tax Law Review. Among her many achievements, she succeeded in the client counseling clinic competition, placing in the top three in 2016, and participated in both the Criminal Prosecution Clinic and the Women’s Law Association.
Valencia‘s legacy is one of compassion, inspiration, strength, and love. In her honor, we carry forward the lesson she taught us: Live with purpose, love deeply, and never give up on the pursuit of justice, fairness, and compassion.
In Valencia’s memory, we invite you to make a gift to the Law School Loyalty Fund. We will use the funds received to purchase something for the law school that will commemorate her impact. Options include but are not limited to tables for the courtyard, a tree, a bench or a scholarship; what we are able to fund depends on the amount raised. We hope those who love and remember her will consider a donation, allowing her memory to live on with future Mizzou Law students.