A school in Arkansas has unveiled a monument to Botham Jean, who was shot and killed at his apartment in Dallas by an off-duty police officer in 2018. Jean had previously attended Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas before moving to Dallas.
Botham's brother, Brandt Jean, currently attends the school and was present for the unveiling of the monument. He was also honored with the first Botham Jean Inspiration Award. The school created the award to recognize members of the university community who serve as role models and give hope to others. Brandt Jean received national attention when he publicly forgave the officer who shot his brother at the end of her trial.
The unveiling of the memorial was timed to coincide with what would have been Botham Jean's 30th birthday.
"Even though we have lost someone that we love, there is no question that his influence continues to make an impact on people," said Todd Gentry, Campus Minister at Harding University. "Today as we stand at the edge of this memorial, we don't just sit here and remember. It challenges us to change our life."
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