India, Oct. 18 -- Ave Maria University has announced a new bronze sculpture to honor the late conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.

The piece, created by Catholic artist Timothy Schmalz, will be added to the university's fine art collection and celebrates Kirk's life and influence. Kirk, 31, was shot and killed during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on September 10.

Following his death, the Ave Maria community held a Mass that same evening, and another on September 14, where a Deacon shared one of Kirk's remarks in his homily.

The sculpture portrays Kirk in an embrace with Jesus Christ. University President Mark Middendorf attended a private unveiling on September 17, where he saw Schmalz's clay model of the work. The proje...