Arèanah Preston Tree Memorial

Please note: We apologize for the technical difficulties that resulted in GoFundMe refunding your generous donations.

We hope that you can find it in your heart to donate again to this fundraiser.

The Study Abroad Class of 2018 is seeking to fund the planting of a memorial tree on the Illinois State University campus for alumna/classmate/ friend Arèanah Preston.

Arèanah, a Chicago police officer, lost her life in the line of duty when she was senselessly murdered in a random act of violence in the early morning of May 6th, 2023. She leaves behind a loving family and many friends.

We all met Arèanah by chance when we enrolled in a study abroad trip to study social injustices in Germany and Poland during the Holocaust. We started as strangers and came back as family.

She exhibited leadership when she voluntarily led discussions with us about human rights and how we need to protect and advocate for those rights. Several years ago, after she became a Chicago police officer, she was interviewed about her study abroad experiences, and she said, “I know a big thing for our trip was finding voices for those who didn’t have a voice. When I got back, I wanted to be a police officer. I felt I could be the person to fight for justice.”

“A person to fight for justice” that was Arèanah Preston. She said, “I came to the realization that it is tremendously important to hold each other accountable, as well as to speak up for those who are not able to speak for themselves.”

Arèanah embodied the spirit and meaning of her words. She lived them. She was more than a student, more than a police officer. Arèanah was our hope, and hope dwells within all our hearts.

We want to remember Arèanah in a place that she loved, learned and laughed. We chose to plant a memorial tree to represent the strength and endurance of her spirit. Please help us honor our friend by donating as much as you are able. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing her story.

Signed, your loving friends from the 2018 Study Abroad Class.

If we exceed our goal, all extra proceeds will be donated to the PeaceforPreston Foundation.