Brooks Prejean was more than just a student and a technician—he was a young man whose compassion, dedication, and spirit left a deep mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His untimely passing in 2024 left an irreplaceable void, but his legacy continues to shine through the lives he touched and the vital work he supported. This article reflects on the life and legacy of Brooks Prejean, exploring his contributions, tragic passing, and the ongoing conversations his story has sparked around mental health and support.
Early Life and Education
Brooks Prejean was a proud Louisiana native, having been born and raised in the state that would shape much of his life. He attended the Episcopal School of Acadiana and graduated in 2021. Known for his warm personality and strong academic performance, he was admired by classmates and teachers alike.
Following high school, Brooks Prejean enrolled at Louisiana State University (LSU), where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Biological Sciences. His academic pursuits were grounded in a genuine passion for life sciences and helping others. Brooks’ love for biology was not just about textbook knowledge—it was about making a real difference in people’s lives through science.
A Role of Compassion: Organ Recovery Technician
While attending LSU, Brooks Prejean also served as an Organ Recovery Technician at the Southern Eye Bank in Metairie, Louisiana. This position wasn’t just a job—it was a calling. In this role, Brooks played a part in the life-saving process of organ and tissue donation, ensuring that families in need had hope and patients awaiting transplants could get a second chance at life.
Brooks’ colleagues at the Southern Eye Bank describe him as deeply compassionate, responsible, and passionate about his work. His efforts helped change lives and offered solace to grieving families. It is clear that Brooks Prejean found purpose in serving others, and his work in this field stands as a testament to his giving nature.
Campus Involvement and Brotherhood
Life at LSU wasn’t all academics for Brooks Prejean. He was also an active member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, where he built lifelong friendships and became an integral part of a supportive brotherhood. Within this fraternity, Brooks was known for his kindness, willingness to help others, and infectious energy. His ability to balance academic, professional, and social responsibilities spoke volumes about his discipline and passion for living a meaningful life.
His fraternity brothers and peers often described him as someone who would always lend a listening ear or encouraging word—traits that made him stand out in any crowd.
The Tragic Loss of a Bright Light
On September 15, 2024, tragedy struck when the news of Brooks Prejean’s death surfaced. He died by suicide after jumping from a bridge. The devastating news left the LSU community, the Southern Eye Bank, and his family and friends in mourning. His passing brought forward a wave of grief, confusion, and sorrow, as many struggled to understand how someone so dedicated, vibrant, and caring could be gone so suddenly.
Although the personal details surrounding his death remain private, the emotional toll it has taken on those close to Brooks is deeply felt. His story sheds light on the silent struggles many young adults face and underscores the urgent need for increased mental health support on college campuses and within work environments.
Raising Awareness for Mental Health
The tragic death of Brooks Prejean has prompted critical conversations around mental health awareness. His passing serves as a solemn reminder that outward success and a warm smile may sometimes mask internal struggles. Friends, colleagues, and family have emphasized the importance of checking in on loved ones, offering support, and removing the stigma associated with mental health challenges.
Brooks’ story is now part of a broader dialogue pushing for institutional and social changes—ensuring that emotional wellness is prioritized alongside academic and career achievements.
A Legacy of Love and Service
In the wake of Brooks Prejean’s passing, communities came together to honor his life. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist his family with funeral expenses and offer emotional and financial support. The overwhelming response showed just how deeply Brooks was loved and how many lives he had touched.
His work at the Southern Eye Bank continues to inspire. His colleagues remember him not just for his technical skills, but for his compassion and dedication to helping others. Many of the people who benefited from organ donations may never know Brooks personally, but they are forever connected to him through the gift of life.
Academic Dedication and Dreams
Brooks Prejean was a focused and enthusiastic student. At LSU, his pursuit of biology reflected his curiosity about life and dedication to service. His professors and classmates saw in him not just academic potential, but a genuine love for learning and discovery.
He had dreams of making a long-term difference in the medical field. With his strong academic record and real-world experience in organ recovery, he was well on his way to building a career rooted in empathy, science, and service.
Remembering Brooks Prejean
Although his life was tragically cut short, the impact Brooks Prejean made in his 21 years remains powerful. He was someone who gave selflessly, lived purposefully, and uplifted those around him. His passing has inspired people to advocate for better mental health resources, to be more present in their relationships, and to never underestimate the importance of compassion.
Brooks’ legacy lives on through every organ transplant he helped make possible, every life he touched at LSU, and every heart that now beats a little heavier because of his absence.
FAQs About Brooks Prejean
Q1: Who was Brooks Prejean?
A: Brooks Prejean was a Louisiana State University student and Organ Recovery Technician at the Southern Eye Bank. He was also a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.
Q2: What was Brooks Prejean studying?
A: He was pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology/Biological Sciences at LSU.
Q3: What happened to Brooks Prejean?
A: Brooks Prejean tragically passed away on September 15, 2024, by suicide.
Q4: How has the community responded to his death?
A: Friends, family, and the broader LSU community mourned his passing and launched a GoFundMe campaign to support his loved ones and honor his legacy.
Q5: What legacy did Brooks Prejean leave behind?
A: His work in organ donation, academic dedication, and the love he gave to others continue to inspire those who knew him.
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