Sheleen Jones, a 1991 Xavier University of Louisiana graduate and professor of art and sculpture at her alma mater, was commissioned to create a monument that honors Black veterans. The monument was recently unveiled by Governor John Bel Edwards and other military dignitaries. Fellow Xavierite and Louisiana state senator, Royce Duplessis (’06), helped secure Jones as the artist to create the piece that honors the service and sacrifice of all African American veterans throughout America’s history. 

“It is an honor to create memorial sculptures for communities,” said Jones. “I hope to continue creating images that capture and celebrate our humanity, our struggles, our beauty and our fortitude.” 

Read more here, and watch the unveiling here.