In memoriam
Queen’s remembers Professor Forough Jahanbakhsh
November 28, 2025
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The Queen’s community is remembering Associate Professor Forough Jahanbakhsh, who passed away Nov. 14 after complications related to a long-term illness. Dr. Jahanbakhsh is best known for her book Islam, Democracy and Religious Modernism in Iran (1953–2000), which remains widely cited for its examination of Iranian reformist thinkers and the evolving trajectory of religious reform in Iran. She joined Queen’s University in July 2002 and taught courses on Islam and modernity, contributing significantly to the School of Religion’s curriculum and to the intellectual growth of countless students. She is part of a generation of scholars analyzing how Iranian reformist thinkers grappled with modernity, pluralism, and democratic theory through Islamic frameworks.
The School of Religion notes that Dr. Jahanbakhsh’s contributions to the study of religion and mentorship of students have left a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues on campus. Her kindness, generosity, and commitment to her field will be deeply missed.