Paul R. Carter College of Business announces recipients of Botham Jean Scholarship

September 4, 2020 | Paul R. Carter College of Business | Botham Shem Jean Scholarships |

The Paul R. Carter College of Business Administration, in cooperation with PwC, has selected four students as recipients of the Botham Jean Business Scholarship. The scholarship, established in 2019, supports historically underrepresented populations as they pursue degrees within the Harding University College of Business. This year’s recipients have been chosen for their academic excellence and demonstrated leadership.

The scholarship was established by Harding and PwC in honor of Botham Jean, a 2016 alumnus of the University who was tragically killed Sept. 6, 2018, at his home in Dallas. Jean was a beloved risk assurance associate with PwC, proud Harding graduate and faithful Christian.

"During Botham's short life he was active in community outreach in his native country of St. Lucia, leading several mission teams from Harding to visit poor and vulnerable institutions and communities," said Dr. Allen Frazier, dean and professor of the College of Business Administration. "This scholarship is aimed at honoring his life and enhancing his legacy to even greater heights. The qualities we see in these students are consistent with what PwC asked us to look for – leadership, diligence, demonstrated capability and financial need. I am confident these students will gratefully honor the legacy of Botham Jean."

Jean came to the University from the Caribbean nation of St. Lucia. During his time at Harding, he was a member of the Good News Singers, a resident assistant, an intern for the Rock House campus ministry, and a leader in Sub T-16 men’s social club. Jean frequently led worship during daily chapel services and other campus events. He was well-known for his charismatic and powerful song leading. After graduation, Jean moved to Dallas where he was hired by PwC following an internship with the company.

PwC initially established the scholarship fund with a gift of $50,000. Through personal contributions from PwC partners and staff and the PwC Matching Gift Program, it has grown to more than $600,000 as of June 1.

Harding has awarded Trinity Bolden, a freshman from Searcy, Arkansas; Rollansky Darote, a sophomore from North Miami, Florida; Brittany Tate, a junior from San Diego, California; and Antonio Montez, a senior from Carrollton, Texas, as the four recipients of the scholarship in Jean’s memory. All four students are studying accounting in the College of Business.