Published May 30, 2023
CAPTION:(L-R) ULM TRIO Programs Retention Coordinator Tommie Nelson, UL System President Dr.
Jim Henderson, and ULM Reginald F. Lewis Scholar Carl Whitlock pose in front of the
Eiffel Tower in Paris.
MONROE, LA –During the Spring 2023 semester, members of the ULM Reginald F. Lewis Scholars program
had the opportunity to study abroad in Paris, France for a week. Facilitator Tommie
Nelson, Retention Coordinator of ULM TRIO Programs, and TRIO Participant Carl Whitlock,
ULM Reginald F. Lewis Scholar, attended the trip along with other RFL Scholars representing
each university in the UL System.
The University of Louisiana System Reginald F. Lewis Scholars Program specifically
recruits black males and provides them with educational programs, mentoring opportunities,
and co-curricular experiences to enhance outcomes. The initiative is funded by the
Reginald F. Lewis Foundation and other private donors. As part of the UL System Reginald
F. Lewis Program, scholars are required to participate in faculty-led research and
the study abroad program. The international component took place over two semesters
during the scholar’s junior year.
“Study abroad allows individuals to develop cultural competency through immersive
experiences. The Scholars witnessed French culture classically — walking through vibrant
streets, savoring the cuisine and enjoying monuments. Their understanding deepened
by presenting at a Parisian University, attending lectures at The Sorbonne and witnessing
Paris’ current civil unrest and protest,” stated Dr. Claire Norris, Vice President
of Advancement with the UL System.
The RFL Scholars, representing each university in the UL System, attended lectures
at the world-renowned Sorbonne University, and the scholars then gave an excellent
presentation at the Leonardo Da Vinci University. Some of the events were attended
by UL System President Dr. Jim Henderson, ULM SGA President and UL System Student
Representative Ethan Estis, the Louisiana Black Caucus, and several UL System Reginald
F. Lewis Program sponsors.
“Dr. Claire Norris at the University of Louisiana System runs an immaculate program
- the Reginald F. Lewis Scholars Program,” said Estis. “Because of this ever-changing
trip, these scholars have truly experienced what it means to excel in academics, community,
and career engagement. It was an honor to be part of this historic trip, and I look
forward to seeing this program continue to change the lives of Louisiana's brightest!”
he continued.
RFL Scholar Carl Whitlock said, “Paris is more than just a place for tourists to visit
or the Eiffel Tower. The art made me realize that there is much more culture in the
world than what I've seen and done in Louisiana."
The 2023 Paris, France Study Abroad Trip was an experience that the Reginald F. Lewis
scholars will forever cherish,” said Nelson.
For more information about the ULM Reginald F. Lewis Scholars program, click here.
