Published October 6, 2022
CAPTION: ULM Reginald F. Lewis Scholars attended the 2022 Annual Retreat in Baton Rouge. Pictured at the Capitol: (L-R) Ernest Wyatt, Eric J. Lair, Jr., Carl Whitlock, and Braxton A. Jackson
MONROE, LA – The UL System hosted the 2022 Annual Reginald F. Lewis (RFL) Scholars Retreat in Baton
Rouge August 23-24. The four ULM RFL Scholars include: from Cohort 1 Carl Whitlock
and Ernest Wyatt and from Cohort 2 Braxton A. Jackson and Eric J. Lair, Jr. The RFL
Scholars were escorted by Mr. Tommie Nelson, Retention Coordinator of ULM TRIO Programs
and the Dr. Alex John Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Fellow. Mr. Nelson oversees
the activities of the ULM RFL Scholars as part of his Fellowship duties.
“The retreat is a shift in perspective representing a once in a lifetime opportunity
for student scholars to reflect on and share their needs, challenges, and triumphs
in higher education,” said Nelson.
During the retreat the Scholars participated in team-building exercises, set personal
goals for the coming year, developed leadership skills, and strengthened collaborations.
The two-day retreat included activities such as community service, a tour of the Capitol,
and workshops.
Highlights of the retreat included participation in an Emergenetics International
workshop that teaches students self-awareness and foundational soft skills, as well
as a visit to the headquarters of Raising Cane’s and a meeting with CEO Todd Graves
and his collaborative team.
During the tour of the Capitol, the Scholars met several state officials including
State Treasurer John M. Schroder and State Representatives Vanessa LaFleur and Ted
James. Both representatives took the floor to speak with the scholars about the challenges
and obstacles they overcame to get where they are. “Always make sure they see the
positive side of you,” said. Rep. LaFleur.
The Reginald F. Lewis Scholars Program of the Universities of Louisiana Systems improves
the college experience for black male students in the UL system. The program provides
a three-year curated educational experience focused on three key areas—academics,
social advancement, and community service.
