The University of Louisiana System launched a program last year to enhance the educational experiences of exemplary Black male students.
Two students from each of the system’s nine-member institutions, including Southeastern Louisiana University, are participating in the second cohort of the R.F. Lewis Scholars program, a three-year initiative that focuses on academics, social advancement and community service.
The 18 program participants are rising sophomores who were chosen based on academic merit, financial need and leadership skills.
Nicholas Gibson and Joshua Randall will represent Southeastern this year. Gibson, the son of Chaneka Yates and Eddie Gibson, is an engineering technology major from Addis, while Randall, the son of Tonya Randall and Samuel Gabriel, is a communications major from New Orleans.
Southeastern Dean of Students Gabe Willis said Dylan James and Demille Davis were Southeastern’s first R.F. Lewis Scholars.
R.F. Lewis Scholars receive a full tuition scholarship. In addition, cohorts will engage in three key areas: the community experience, which includes a partnership with the Universities of Louisiana Management and Leadership Institute and a service learning project; the social experience, which includes an annual retreat, and academic and professional mentorship from business, community and university leaders; and the academic experience, which includes research projects and a study abroad opportunity during junior year.
