Jam for Janey

To honor the life and legacy of Janey Thompson, we created Jam for Janey, a 3v3 basketball tournament open to all Wake Forest students. Janey, a Charlotte native and Myers Park High School alumna, was a biophysics major and recipient of the Ledford Physics Scholarship. She was also a proud member of the Physics Honors Society. Her involvement on campus was remarkable: a passionate teammate on the Women’s Club Basketball Team, a Wake Radio contributor, a Pre-Dental track student, and an enthusiastic supporter of Wake Forest Athletics. Janey’s love for both basketball and physics inspired this event, which brings the community together while raising funds in her memory. The tournament not only celebrates Janey’s passions but also aims to support future generations of students who share her drive and dedication. All proceeds go toward supplementing the Ledford Physics Scholarship, with the ultimate goal of establishing a Janey Thompson Physics Scholarship at Wake Forest. This scholarship would empower students with a love for physics—just like Janey—to pursue their academic journey here. The response to the inaugural event in 2024 was a moving tribute to her impact, and we hope to grow that support even further with the third annual tournament on Thursday, April 16th, 2026. Janey was not only an outstanding student and athlete, but also a kind, intentional, and uplifting friend whose influence is still deeply felt. Supporting Jam for Janey is a meaningful way to honor her legacy and ensure that her spirit lives on at Wake Forest. As Janey always said, “find your best ever.”