SUB T-16 The unexpected passing of Botham ShemJean sentwaves of emotions across men's social club SubT-16 which Jean was a member of during his time at Harding. SeniorHunter Hoagland, member of SubT-16, knew this was a traumatic time for the whole Jean family and wanted to help in any way he could. A few hours after hearing the news of Jean's passing, he and the rest of the social club decided to organize an online fundraiser. All of the funds that were raised were given directly to the Jean family and were used for any expenses they had. "We raised our goal amount of $5,000within a couple of hours," Hoagland said. "People from all around the world donated, posting messages that they are praying for the family, and that they are sorry for the Harding community's loss." The fund raiser collected over $45,000for the Jean family. SubT-16 sponsor and Assistant Vice President of Advancement Steve Lake was close to Jean and said he was saddened by his passing. He knew the fundraiser would help the Jean family and was not surprised by the amount that was raised. "This story resonated with a lot of people outside the Harding family," Lake said."That's why people gave, because they felt for his family, and they felt they wantedto do something to make a difference." In fall 20 l 5, Jean served as vice president of the club and oversaw induction week activities. A portion of seniors that joined SubT-16 that year ran the Conquer the Gauntlet race in Little Rock Arkansas, on Sept.15, 2018. The group included senior Jase Thornton who said the race held special meaning because, after Jean's death, they chose to run in his honor. "Through struggle,he taught us to rely oneach other, and that was the only way we made it through the race," Thornton said. "Running for him was the least we could do after what he's done for us and for the world around him." story by Haley Hood Students gather on the steps in front ofthe George S. Benson Auditorium on Sept. 10, 2018, to mourn, pray and reflect on the life ofalumnus Botham ShemJean. The Black Student Association and the Student Association planned the candlelight vigil to bringgrieving students and community members together. I photo by Sterling McMichael Botham Shem Jean, 2016alumnus, volunteers with the Original Rock House, a ministry ofthe College Church ofChrist, on April 30, 2 014. Jeanspent many hours serving with this ministry and became known for his strong servant leadership. I photo courtesy of Jeff Montgomery GOOD NEWS SINGERS After auditioning in spring2014, Botham ShemJean was chosen as a member of Good NewsSingers. The Good News Singerswere a 10-member a cappella singing group created with the purpose of bringing glory to God through musical arrangements, lyrics, harmonies and the message of Christ in song. "Botham was an energetic baritone who captivated audiences with his enthusiasm," Chuck Hicks, assistant professor of music and director of Belles & Beaux and GoodNews Singers, said. "He had the ability to be both humble and assertive simulcaneously." Harding's Good News Singersmade the trip to Dallas, Texas, for Jean's funeral to honor him and his family. Junior Justice Laws was a member of Good NewSingers in 2018 and sang at Jean's funeral alongside the nine other members. "Botham had such a big presence on campus" Laws said. "The way people spoke about him at his funeral was very much how I want people to speak at my funeral. The way he carried himself and the love he showedtoward everyone is something I want to emulate." Alumnus Tyler Samuelwas a member ofGood News Singer at the same time as Jean. "I was fortunate to have the opportunity to singwith Botham in the Good News Singers," Samuel said."He used his gift of singing to touch others, and I'mgraceful for the chance I had to get to know Botham. I was shocked when we learned that he had been taken away, but even in his abbreviated time on earth, he made an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. He will be greatly missed." Hicks reflected on his interactions with Jean and the impact he had. "Botham's love for God and conveying the messages of God in song will not soon be forgotten," Hicks said."His Christiancompassion was evident and will continue to be an example to the Good News Singers use our God-given talents to teach lead story by Jacob Broyles 31 I DAILY LIFE
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