Brooks Prejean was more than just a high-achieving student from Louisiana—he was a young man with a bright smile, a compassionate heart, and a commitment to serving others. His story, though tragic in its end, continues to inspire a vital conversation about mental health, especially among driven young people.
Early Life & Foundations
Raised in Lafayette, Louisiana, Brooks attended the Episcopal School of Acadiana. From a young age, he exhibited intellectual curiosity and a warm, easygoing personality. Teachers, coaches, and later peers remembered him as a natural leader—not in a showy sense, but through genuine encouragement and support.
Key highlights of his school years include:
- Academic excellence: Inducted into the National Honor Society and Cum Laude Society
- Athletics: Active in varsity basketball and baseball; known for strong work ethic and sportsmanship
- Character traits: Driven but humble, competitive yet kind, and always ready to uplift others
This early foundation in integrity, community involvement, and emotional strength shaped who he became at university.
College at LSU: Academics, Leadership & Community
In 2021, Brooks began a new chapter at Louisiana State University (LSU), majoring in Biology. His ambitions extended far beyond grades; he aimed to channel his intellect into a career in medicine.
His achievements at LSU included:
- Academic honors:
- Consistent Dean’s List and President’s Honor Roll
- Recipient of several prestigious scholar awards
- Leadership & service:
- Active member of his fraternity—valued for his ability to foster connection and unity
- Assistant Director of Student Outreach in LSU Student Government—advocating for student needs
He balanced these roles while maintaining a rigorous course load, demonstrating an extraordinary capacity for resilience and empathy.
Work Beyond the Classroom: Healing Through Service
Brooks didn’t limit himself to theoretical studies—he immersed himself in work that touched lives directly.
Organ Recovery Technician, Southern Eye Bank
- Assisted in the recovery and processing of donor eye tissue for transplant and research.
- Required intense professionalism and compassion, qualities colleagues recognized and praised.
Volunteer at Hospice of Baton Rouge
- Provided emotional support to patients and families facing end‑of‑life situations.
- His presence brought calm and comfort during deeply vulnerable moments.
These roles reflected his core values: dignity, empathy, and a deep desire to help those in need.
Tragedy Strikes: The Loss of a Bright Future
On September 15, 2024, Brooks Prejean died by suicide at just 21 years old. The news shocked LSU, his high school, and the Lafayette community. For many, it was almost unthinkable that someone so accomplished, warm, and outwardly strong could have been silently struggling.
This heartbreaking moment served as a powerful reminder: the facade of success doesn’t always show the internal battles one may face.
The Ripple Effect: Community Healing & Action
The outpouring of support in response to Brooks’s passing was profound and immediate:
- A fundraiser was created to support his family and mental health initiatives, raising significant funds.
- Memorials and accolades included posthumous degrees and candlelight vigils held at his high school and university.
- Tributes from friends and fraternity brothers emphasized his role as “the glue” that held them together.
These collective actions signified profound grief—but also hope: a dedication to ensuring others wouldn’t fall through similar cracks.
His Legacy: A Call to Mental Health Advocacy
Brooks’s story emphasizes that:
- Success does not equal mental wellness
High-achievers—including scholars, athletes, and community leaders—can struggle internally despite external accomplishments. - Mental health support must reduce stigma
Conversations around depression and suicide need compassion and openness, especially among young adults. - Communities and universities can lead
Educational institutions have begun implementing better mental health resources, peer check-ins, and awareness programs triggered by his memory.
Data Snapshot: Brooks Prejean’s Life & Impact
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| High School | Episcopal School of Acadiana, Class of 2021 |
| Honors | National Honor Society, Cum Laude Society |
| Sports | Basketball and baseball (varsity teams) |
| University | LSU, Biology major, graduating in 2025 |
| Academic Awards | Dean’s List, President’s Honor Roll, multiple scholar awards |
| Leadership | Fraternity member, Student Government Assistant Director |
| Professional Service | Organ Recovery Technician |
| Volunteer Work | Hospice of Baton Rouge |
| Date of Death | September 15, 2024 |
| Aftermath Initiatives | Fundraiser, posthumous degree, mental-health advocacy |
Moving Forward in Brooks’s Name
For educational institutions:
- Enhance mental health services with more counselors and peer-led support groups.
- Normalize outreach by encouraging open dialogue and proactive check-ins among students.
For families and communities:
- Learn the warning signs of depression and suicidal thoughts.
- Provide safe, non-judgmental spaces for young people to be heard.
For peers and friends:
- Ask simple questions like “How are you really doing?”
- Offer consistent support and stay connected.
By taking action at every level, Brooks’s legacy becomes a catalyst for meaningful change.
Why This Matters
Brooks Prejean’s life reminds us that:
- No level of achievement or outward positivity shields against mental illness.
- Tragedy can spark powerful community healing and preparedness.
- Remembering him means ensuring others do not suffer in silence.
Final Thoughts
Brooks’s journey—from a compassionate student-athlete to a dedicated volunteer and scholar—was marked by purpose, empathy, and resilience. His untimely death exposes painful but necessary truths about mental health. As communities rally in his honor, they plant seeds for a future where help is not hidden, and asking for support is a strength, not a weakness.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and reflects a general overview. It does not represent the views of Brooks Prejean’s family or affiliated institutions.