RFL SCHOLARS HOST BAYOU CLASSIC SPEED MENTORING EVENT FOR STUDENTS FROM ACROSS THE STATE

The University of Louisiana System’s Reginald F. Lewis Scholars hosted a Speed Mentoring Event in association with Bayou Classic weekend. During the event, nearly 100 black male students from two-year and four-year institutions across the state engaged with nearly 40 mentors willing to provide guidance from their own personal and professional experience.

“The Bayou Classic is about more than just football, it’s about community and we are so appreciative of the mentors for taking time to sow into students today,” UL System President Jim Henderson said. “The RFL Scholars program focuses on equipping students to take hold of their own destiny and expanding their social network is a key to their future success.”

In addition to the series of one-on-one conversations with mentors from a variety of fields catering to many interests, attendees enjoyed lunch with several inspirational speakers including: Grambling State University President Rick Gallot; UL System President and CEO Jim Henderson; Omarosa Newman, author and former political aide; U.S. Small Business Association Regional Administrator Ted James; Verizon VP for Governmental Relations April Brumfield; the first black U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, Ron Gathe; former president of Dillard University, Dr. Walter Kimbrough; and Xavier University of New Orleans President Reynald Verret. The event was emceed by Dr. Claire Norris, UL System VP of advancement.

“Building a network with professionals is valuable but you must appreciate that this is the beginning of your network,” Leah Brown, manager of policy government and public affairs for Chevron said. “Take time to build relationships with your peers who will be an important part of your network for years to come.”

Photos and videos from today’s event are available here.