Enjoy this special edition of the Louisiana Now! featuring in New Orleans, La. a United Methodist institution VOL. 14, No. 3 BAtON ROUgE, LA MARCH 8, 2013 A Ministry of Inclusion

Dillard’s new chaplain, Rev. John Wingate, is reaching out to every student on campus

Rev. John Bernard Wingate has been on the job as Dillard University’s chap- lain and director of VisionQuest for fewer Movie Magic / 4 than six months. In that time, he has already embarked upon a decade’s worth of fresh, forward-thinking initiatives to engage the student body and energize religious life on campus. “I believe that God sent me here to make a difference in the lives of these students,” he said, “and I’m committed to that.” A native of Newark, N.J., Wingate is an ordained itinerant elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church with over 26 years of experience in the ministry. He has over four generations of familial ties to the , dating Lecture Series / 5 back to his great-great-grandfather. He has been the pastor of five churches and served as a high school principal. He is also a professional gospel singer and a licensed Christian radio announcer. Wingate had big shoes to fill at Dillard, replacing Rev. Gail Bowman, who served as the university’s chaplain for 14 years. But he has quickly endeared himself to the campus community with a variety of special programming and an emphasis on inclusion. “I think students need more engage- ment, particularly on the weekends,” said Wingate. “If we have events on a more International Focus / 6 consistent basis, I think we’ll be able to draw the students and get them involved so they can have what I call the total 70802-5700 LA Rouge, Baton Blvd. North 527 Dillard experience. They’ve got to have a holistic experience, and I believe the chapel is the place where town and gown meet.” One of his more visible efforts has been a weekly prayer at the flagpole in the center of Dillard’s Avenue of the Oaks. This prayer session, held every Friday at noon (rain or shine), has drawn dozens of students, faculty and staff and become a time for meditation, catharsis and renewal – a communal way of deal- ing with the stresses of the school and work week. Wingate has numerous other programs

U.S. POStAgEU.S. in place or in the works, including: Bible services, he encouraged attendees to tech-savvy services in the future. PERMit # 575 # PERMit NON-PROfit ROUgE, LA ROUgE, PAiD study; movie nights; early-morning walks bring tablets and smartphones and follow “We have a cutting-edge president,” BAtON around the campus grounds; faith-based along during an interactive Hour of Wingate said of Dr. Walter Kimbrough. talent shows; and healthy snack breaks Power. Students used their electronic “One of his strengths is that he’s into during exam periods. devices to search for scriptures and take multimedia and social media, and I’m For one of his first Sunday chapel sermon notes, and they can expect more See Rev. Wingate, page 4 2 Louisiana Conference No Special! Dillard University Edition MARCH 8, 2013

A letter from the Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Dillard University

Dear members of 2000-2009, I worked at Dillard in the such as physics, mathematics, biology, investment for those who provide their the Louisiana Development Office. I saw firsthand the arts and, indeed, ministry. They are learn- time, talent and treasure. I look forward to Conference of the tremendous impact of the support provid- ing to become good citizens by participat- working with you to keep our venerable United Methodist ed by the United Methodist Church, and ing in countless community service hours institution strong and seeded in the faith Church, particularly the Louisiana Conference. in areas such as elderly care, housing from which we were founded. I am delighted to Dillard cherishes its relationship with you, repair and many others. It is because of Thank you Louisiana Conference for join Dillard and we look forward to our collective Dillard’s deep roots in the United all that you do for our Fair Dillard. University as Vice work of producing college-educated pro- Methodist Church that this culture exists. President for fessionals who enter the global economy While Dillard has come a long way Sincerely, Institutional Marc A. Barnes with a deep sense of moral and ethical since the devastation of 2005, there is still Marc A. Barnes Advancement. values. so much opportunity to grow, particularly Vice President for Institutional Although I begin at Dillard anew, I am no Because of your support, our students in the areas of student enrollment and Advancement stranger to this esteemed university. From are entering graduate school in programs fundraising. Dillard remains a wonderful

Quick facts about Dillard University

Academic Program Students and Faculty Degrees: Enrollment: 1,307 full-time faculty: 63 Bachelor of Arts Doctorate Degrees: 67% Bachelor of Science Endowed Professorships: 19 Bachelor of Science in Nursing Student/faculty Ratio: 14:1 Colleges: Costs Arts and Sciences, tuition: $13,650/year Professional Studies, Campus Housing (Average): Business $8,868/year general Studies Student Life Academic Majors: 18 Dillard students and friends pose with actor and author Hill Harper, star of the hit Mascot: Bleu Devil TV show CSI: NY, who gave the commencement address and was awarded an intercollegiate Athletics: Men honorary doctorate of humane letters at Commencement 2012 in May. 2012/2013 Rankings and Women's Basketball, Cross U.S. News & World Report: Country, and track & field; No. 9 among all HBCUs Women's Volleyball Tour Our Campus! Active Organizations: 29 greek Chapters: 6 Dillard University invites you to tour our beautiful campus in the gentilly neighbor- hood of New Orleans. Located just 10 minutes from the Central Business District and the historic french Quarter, Dillard offers students the resources and opportuni- ties of a modern metropolis, and the comfort and safety of a private campus com- munity. Contact Dillard University Campus tours are available Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. To make an appointment, please contact Monica White, coordinator of campus Department Phone # tours and special events, at [email protected]. We hope to see you soon! Business and finance 504.816.4644 Cashier 504.816.4654 Recruitment, Admissions and Programming 504.816.4670 Louisiana Conference Now! financial Aid & Scholarships 504.816.4677 Records & Registration 504.816.4705 Cynthia Fierro Harvey Resident Bishop Residential Life 504.816.4734 Don Cottrill Provost Student Affairs 504.816.4685 Student Health Services 504.816.4743 Betty Backstrom Editor

Student Success 504.816.4236 Louisiana Conference NOW! is the newspaper of the Louisiana Annual Student Support Services 504.816.4306 Conference of The United Methodist Church and is published twice a month. University Chaplain 504.816.4791 Subscriptions are $20 for one year, $30 for two years. (Please make checks payable to Louisiana Annual Conference.) Send subscriptions, news and information to: Editor 527 North Boulevard Baton Rouge, LA 70802 E-mail: [email protected] (888) 239-5286 ext. 227 (225) 346-1646, (225) 383-2652 fax

You can find the Louisiana Annual Conference on the Internet at http://www.la-umc.org MARCH 8, 2013 Louisiana Conference No Special! Dillard University Edition 3 Student Spotlight: Nicole Tinson and Kevin Perry

Nicole Tinson and Kevin Perry established professionals in fields ranging have overcome adversity to from education, to journalism, to business become two of Dillard’s best and about how to get ahead. brightest “I like to mobilize the students in the junior class to understand there’s life after Dillard,” she said. “It’s fun to socialize Nicole Tinson, while we’re here, but we also have to Class of 2014 develop a business-oriented mindset. You have to know what you’re going to do Nicole Tinson grew up in South Central when you leave the Oaks,” she said, in ref- Los Angeles. When she was nine years old, erence to Dillard’s Avenue of the Oaks. her older brother was killed. Nicole’s single In high school, Nicole was part of the mother was left to take care of three chil- Los Angeles youth chapter of the NAACP. dren and one baby granddaughter, who When she arrived at Dillard, she was sur- would grow up fatherless. prised to find there was no NAACP chapter “I looked at my environment and knew on campus, so she started one herself. As I didn’t want to grow or adapt into it,” chapter president, she has hosted events Nicole said. “I knew I wanted to be an including Why Your Vote Matters, which attorney because I like to defend people, brought political figures and media person- and I knew I wanted to affect policy.” alities from New Orleans and throughout Today, Nicole is a junior political sci- Louisiana to campus in advance of the ence major at Dillard University, and she November presidential election. She fol- has distinguished herself as one of the most lowed that with a forum about racism and outstanding students on campus. misogyny in hip-hop that featured academi- This spring, she is studying in cians from across the country. Washington, D.C. as part of the When she’s not studying or leading a Congressional Black Caucus’ Emerging campus organization, Nicole spends much Leaders program. Fewer than two-dozen of her time doing community service. After people were chosen from nearly 900 appli- Hurricane Isaac virtually destroyed much cants for the prestigious program, which of Plaquemines Parish, she traveled to the places students in internships on Capitol rural community with a group of peers to after she graduates in 2014. “I always wanted to be a S.O.A.R. Hill while they take a full slate of courses help a man gut out his house. “In my personal statement, it says future leader so I could be the first one to reach at George Washington University. “He explained how the government attorney, senator, ambassador, philanthro- out to the freshmen – to tell them the dos “They’re helping you to understand pol- wouldn’t come out to help him until his pist – that’s all stuff I’m interested in,” she and don’ts and background of Dillard. To icy – social issues, health issues, political house was completely gutted,” she said. said. “I’m truly about helping the people explain to them that Dillard is the perfect issues – with a special interest in African- “And it was just him, doing it by himself. It who can’t help themselves. I have a plat- place for them to be.” Americans,” she said. “We may work in was an eye-opener for me. It made me real- form of things I take a strong interest in, A theatre major, Kevin has performed in federal departments like Housing and ize there’s something really wrong with the and I just see myself impacting not only numerous stage plays and also served as Urban Development, or the Justice government. He just wanted to fight to save the community I live in, but the United Dillard’s theater manager, running the front Department, or if you’re lucky enough, the and preserve his home. It was a lot of hard States community. If it extends to me going of the house and tackling publicity and White House. When I was accepted, I was work and labor, but I could tell the man international and helping the global com- ticket sales. His first love, however, is edu- jumping up and down and crying. I’m very was extremely grateful that we had been munity, I’ll do that too.” cation, and he hopes to be teaching high excited about the program.” there. I ended up making a YouTube video school English and social studies in the As the president of the junior class, about it.” Kevin Perry, very near future. Nicole recently organized a Peers and Nicole is currently studying for the “Theater has always been a passion of Careers Forum where students spoke with LSATs and plans to enroll in law school Class of 2013 mine,” he said. “I’ve been doing it since I was 12 years old. But my heart lies in edu- Within weeks of beginning his under- cation. So when I do become a teacher, graduate education, Kevin Perry was dealt which will be soon, I will incorporate my a major blow: his mother was diagnosed theatrical side to make the material more with ovarian cancer. Kevin withdrew from interesting.” community college to support her during After graduation, Kevin hopes to join a treatment. Nearly five years later, Kevin’s teacher-training program like Teach For mother is a cancer survivor, and he is one America, City Year or Teach NOLA that of the most active and recognizable stu- will enable him to teach while earning a dents in Dillard’s senior class. master’s degree. Ultimately, he would like When he made the decision to return to to earn a doctorate in education or higher his education, Kevin enrolled at Dillard and education administration. quickly got involved with a variety of cam- “When I teach high school students, I pus initiatives, from coaching the volley- want them to understand that I came from ball team, to serving as Student an area like theirs, and I succeeded,” he Government Association treasurer, to sup- said. “I’m about to graduate from college porting the basketball teams as a member and go on to graduate studies. You could of the Bleu Crew pep squad. He is also a do the same thing. If I can do it, anybody proud member of Phi Beta Sigma can do it. It’s not that big. It’s right there. Fraternity, Inc. And you may not see it until you actually “When I got to Dillard, the Sigmas took do it.” me under their wing,” Kevin said. “They At a very important juncture in his life, were the first people to greet me. They Kevin put his education on hold to help his made sure I got myself on the right path family. It could have derailed his career. before I could even mess up. I looked up to Instead, it helped make him the passionate, them ever since my freshman year.” focused young man he is today. Now Kevin gives back to the under- “My parents are proud of me because classmen that have followed him, not only I’m the first person to graduate from col- through Greek life, but also as a leader for lege in the family,” he said. “So that’s pret- Student Orientation, Advising and ty exciting for everybody.” Registration (S.O.A.R.). 4 Louisiana Conference No Special! Dillard University Edition MARCH 8, 2013

Ejaaz Mason, ’13, is pictured left on the set of “Runaway Hearts.” Damaris Calliet, ’13, is shown in a still shot from the introduction to “Flippin’ Out,” a half- hour comedy show produced by Dillard film students. Dillard students make ‘movie magic’ in New Orleans film scene

Film students flourish amid ties to ty’s film concentration, housed in the senior. “Dillard has so much to offer, and I "It took time to get to know the stu- Hollywood South School of Mass Communication, is quickly figured it out on my first day here.” dents, their strengths and their weakness- becoming one of Dillard’s flagship pro- Sophomore Kendra Murray served as a es,” Morris said. “This year, for the cap- Known for its picturesque grounds, grams. How has this HBCU become so crewmember on Spike Lee’s “Oldboy” and stone projects of the upperclassmen, we tai- gleaming white buildings and tree-lined prevalent in the movie industry? The Morris’ own film, “Runaway Hearts.” lored projects to their strengths, and it has Avenue of the Oaks, the Dillard University answer involves a combination of talent, Murray and her peers were involved in really paid off. The work has dramatically campus has played home to several movie drive, connections and hard work. numerous aspects of the filmmaking improved and can be expanded upon to sets over the past year. From major motion At Dillard, professor Keith Alan Morris process, from editing, to grip work, to pro- compete with all of the best TV pilots this pictures to independent films, Dillard is has all the tools to build a successful film duction design. The students realize how pilot season. I'm excited and hope to take a fast becoming a hotspot for location scouts program, including high-end cameras and rare it is to gain feature film experience as few (of the students and their films) to the and filmmakers. editing suites and connections to industry undergraduates; it’s even more rare to have Cannes Film Fest market as well.” More and more movies are shooting in experts. Recently, he has hosted a number the opportunity to work with Oscar-nomi- Dillard has jumped at every opportunity Louisiana because of the tax breaks the of guest lectures at Dillard from profession- nated directors like Spike Lee. to position itself as a leader in the burgeon- state has introduced to lure the film indus- als including production designer Sharon “I’ve had so many great experiences in ing film scene of Hollywood South. In try. During the 2012-2013 school year, Seymour (“Argo”), cinematographer film,” Murray said. She said she learned a 2012, the university served as a host of the Spike Lee’s “Oldboy” and Lee Daniels’ Kerwin DeVonish (“Red Hook Summer”), lot about herself and her capabilities work- annual Social Change Film Festival and “The Butler” were among the films shot in cinematographer Sean Bobbitt (“Oldboy”), ing under the high-stressful conditions of a Institute. In February, Morris and a group part at Dillard. Locals and those who know and publicist Dianne Slattery (Spike Lee movie shoot. Her hard work paid off; now of Dillard students visited Warren Easton the city will have no trouble spotting the films). she’s interning at New Orleans radio sta- High School to discuss the university’s film campus and its interior spaces in those Ejaaz Mason, a mass communication tion WBOK and writing daily news stories. program. The response was extremely posi- movies. major who wants to share his passion for Mason and his fellow mass communica- tive. Morris may have been addressing the But it’s not just Dillard’s campus that film with teenagers, is one of several stu- tion students have started to produce mate- next batch of Dillard film students – or has become part of the New Orleans film dents who have gained experience working rial of their own, writing and filming skits even the next generation of professional scene, also known as Hollywood South. on feature films at Dillard. for a 30-minute variety show called filmmakers. Dillard’s faculty and students are an even “What a year! I know I’ve been blessed “Flippin’ Out” that satirizes news and cam- Contact the School of Mass bigger part of the equation. The universi- since I’ve been at Dillard,” said Mason, a pus life a la “Saturday Night Live.” Communication at (504) 816-4331.

Rev. Wingate, from page 1 King Jr. Week for Peace, when the schools than a 9-to-5 workday. With that in mind, learn and grow. typically come together and worship. He he has established a 24-hour prayer and “As the chaplain, I have to meet the hoping to bring that same engagement has set a goal to visit all the leading spiritual crisis hotline so that students can needs of the whole student body,” into chapel. The present age requires us to churches across the city to better under- always reach him if they feel the need for Wingate said. “Jesus did not have a min- become a 21st century church. It’s not a stand the culture and needs of his congre- council. istry of exclusion. You can be gay, 16th century church. Just like when the gation. And in February, he hosted a serv- Rev. Wingate has made it his mission straight, black, white, and we will meet Bible was first printed, you were moving ice for the community in Dillard’s to be there for all of Dillard’s students, all your needs. I will meet the needs of every from an oral tradition to a written tradi- Lawless Memorial Chapel called Enough the time. In the fall of 2013, he will con- student who comes through these doors. tion. We’re a university. Why not use is Enough: Stop the Violence Revival to vene a new Religious Life Council so that When people come into my office, I want those tools for ministry?” address the violent crime that dispropor- students of every faith tradition – them to feel Christ and have a positive Wingate is also extending his work tionately affects young black men in New Protestantism, Catholicism, Judaism, experience.” beyond Dillard University’s campus. He Orleans. Islam and so on – can feel represented on Contact the Office of the Chaplain at wants to continue the interfaith dialogue The Office of the Chaplain is tackling the Avenue of the Oaks. He sees the (504) 816-4791. between Dillard and other New Orleans some weighty issues, and Rev. Wingate Office of the Chaplain as a place of love universities outside of the Martin Luther acknowledges that his job requires more and acceptance where Dillard students can MARCH 8, 2013 Louisiana Conference No Special! Dillard University Edition 5 Food for Thought: President Kimbrough launches lecture series

Lecture series to begin in April November and gave the annual Ortique Lecture on Law and Society in front of a After taking office as the president of packed house. Two months later, national Dillard University last summer, one of the radio host Tavis Smiley and revered intel- first major events Dr. Walter Kimbrough lectual Cornel West visited Dillard together announced was a lecture. on their Poverty Tour. They, too, addressed “It’s an opportunity to bring people to a standing-room-only crowd. campus and get them acquainted with what That was just the beginning. On April we’re doing,” Kimbrough said. “To get 18, Kimbrough will launch Brain Food, his Brain Food will kick off on April 18 with a lecture from Michael Eric Dyson. people in the community interacting with official lecture series. Noted author and “New Orleans is known for food. It’s Dyson, a professor of sociology at your faculty, staff, students and alums in a advocate Michael Eric Dyson will give the almost like the culinary capital of the Georgetown University who has authored positive, exciting atmosphere – it creates a inaugural lecture. world. As an institution of higher educa- 16 books, resonates with local audiences; lot of energy about the institution.” “There really didn’t seem to be a pres- tion, we should be feeding peoples’ he has written passionately about the Michelle Alexander, author of the New ence from any of the other higher educa- minds,” he said. tragedy of Hurricane Katrina, and the York Times best-selling book The New Jim tion institutions (in New Orleans), as far as Kimbrough has plenty of experience plight of New Orleanians in its aftermath. Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of a comparable program, so it made sense,” with lecture series. In his previous post as Kimbrough said he is the perfect person to Colorblindness, came to Dillard in Kimbrough said. the president of Philander Smith College in kick off Brain Food. , he created the Bless the Mic “He’s just money every time,” series, which was a roaring success. Kimbrough said. “You’re not going to get a “We started to bring people to campus bad lecture with him. There will be people who had never spoken on campuses at all, who come from out of town to hear him. and I think that’s what made Bless the Mic Not only is he a bona fide academic, he’s a stand out as a series that people started to celebrity, too.” emulate,” Kimbrough said. “It was bold Brain Food, which will likely include and risk-taking.” three or four lectures per semester, has all Bless the Mic also raised eyebrows by the makings of a flagship program for booking lecturers you wouldn’t expect to Dillard. Most importantly, it represents the find at a Historically Black school – people rekindling of a school tradition, and the like the conservative commentator Ann positioning of the university as a locus of Coulter, or Charles Murray, whose contro- intellectual thought in New Orleans. versial book The Bell Curve about class “Dillard has a long history of lecture and intelligence has been decried by some series. They go back to the ’50s,” as racist. Kimbrough said. “It’s really bringing back “You’re going to get a range of people a tradition at Dillard, which is for us to be and a range of ideologies,” Kimbrough an intellectual and cultural center.” said. “The goal is also to reach different For more information about Brain communities, people who have never come Food, contact the Office of University to Dillard before. Those are the things I’ve Communications and Marketing at (504) learned – mix it up, keep it unpredictable, 816-4800. and reach a variety of constituents.” President Kimbrough and family with Cornel West at Dillard in January. Dillard students encouraged to be service-minded through various projects

The HBCU tradition of service is area, which was among the first free neigh- alive and well at Dillard borhoods of color in the South. Greek life plays a large role in commu- From art and education to health and nity service at Dillard. Members of Delta literacy, Dillard University students find Sigma Theta read to children in Head Start countless ways to serve others on local, programs and organize cholesterol and glu- national and international scales. cose screenings through Daughters of “Going to an HBCU, I feel you’re sup- Charity health centers. posed to uplift others,” said Rachel recently participated in the Little Dresses Williams, a senior psychology major from for Africa project, decorating pillowcases, Baton Rouge. “Throughout African- sewing them into dresses, and sending American history, education was a means them to churches, schools and orphanages to better your own life, and then go back to overseas. The men of Omega Psi Phi often better the quality of life in your community grab garbage bags, have a campus cleanup, or family. There was always a deeper and host a barbecue afterwards for atten- meaning. At HBCUs, those qualities of dees. uplift and social responsibility are really Other projects are conducted by ad hoc These Dillard students volunteered at the NFL Experience during Super Bowl stressed.” committees. In the fall, a group of female week in January. On a Saturday afternoon in February, students came together and organized a tor you to be whatever you want to be.” “Because of the history associated with Williams and the National Pan-Hellenic benefit showcase called “It’s a Girl Thing.” When the Super Bowl came to town in HBCUs, you can’t get away from the Council, an organization that unites the Ten acts performed to raise money for the January, more than two-dozen students vol- notion that you’re responsible for more nine historically black fraternities and More Than Me Foundation, which sends unteered at the NFL Experience, a tempo- than yourself,” Williams said. “If you look sororities, organized a Big Day of Service girls to school in the West African nation of rary theme park in the Ernest N. Morial at the number of African-American stu- for Dillard students and prospective stu- Liberia. Convention Center, clocking fans’ 40-yard dents in college, especially from low- dents from New Orleans high schools. “There are so many opportunities to get dash times, facilitating punt, pass and kick income communities, you know you’re Working with the Downtown involved here at Dillard,” said Kristopher contests, and much more. special if you’re just here. And you’re even Neighborhood Improvement Association Lewis, a political science major who volun- Sometimes volunteering is just a whole more special if you graduate. So you have and the Creative Alliance of New Orleans, teers his time with Habitat for Humanity lot of fun. Typically, though, students are a responsibility to give back. I’ve internal- students conducted a cultural survey in the and numerous other service efforts. “It’s up fulfilled by service because they know ized that, and I take it seriously.” city’s Sixth and Seventh Wards. The goal to each individual student to take advan- they’ve helped – in some way, however To learn more about community service was to help allocate non-profit resources to tage of them, but the opportunities and the small – to improve the life of another indi- opportunities at Dillard, contact the Office artists and to assist in an oral history of the networks are here. People are here to men- vidual. of Student Affairs at (504) 816-4685. 6 Louisiana Conference No Special! Dillard University Edition MARCH 8, 2013

Dillard expands its worldwide focus through international partnerships HBCU-Brazilian Alliance, New Orleans. “I watched videos on the International Festival just the Dillard website about the Bleu Devil beginning Classic,” Dillard’s annual basketball dou- bleheader versus crosstown rival Xavier Dillard University has always been University, she said. Like many of her home to students from across the United peers, Moura had experience speaking States. It has also formed strategic partner- English prior to her arrival at Dillard. ships with schools and institutions in coun- Though the alliance with Brazil is rela- tries in Africa and the Caribbean to house tively new, associations with other coun- and educate foreign students. In 2013, the tries are not. Dawson-Smith has also creat- Office of International Students & Study ed a Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Institute Abroad Programs will expand its offerings (TAST) at Dillard to help students learn in exciting new ways, bringing a cohort of about countries with ties to the historic Brazilian students to Dillard and producing slave trade. Coursework enables students to an International Festival on campus. explore slave migration patterns across the Dillard recently partnered with organi- globe. Students and faculty have visited zations in Brazil to bring a group of 18 stu- plantation sites throughout the state of dents to campus. Dillard is one of the few Louisiana and taken trips to countries HBCUs in the South to take advantage of including Ghana and Jamaica that have his- the U.S. government’s HBCU-Brazilian torical associations with the trans-Atlantic Alliance. To support the U.S.-Brazil Joint slave trade. Action Plan on Racial Equality, the two “It’s important to make a physical con- A cohort of Brazilian students has enrolled in an intensive English language pro- countries are promoting and expanding nection between nations,” said Dawson- gram. Upon completion, students will matriculate into Dillard’s traditional cur- academic exchange opportunities between Smith. riculum. U.S. Historically Black Colleges and The Dillard campus and the greater have an opportunity to taste, see and expe- dents study abroad – so they can learn from Universities (HBCUs) and Brazilian uni- New Orleans community are invited to rience the culture of numerous foreign other cultures, and teach foreign students versities. A Memorandum of “visit” other countries this spring at countries. about life at Dillard University in New Understanding between U.S. HBCUs and Dillard’s inaugural International Festival. “We have been asked to create an inter- Orleans. Brazil’s Federal Agency for Support and The fest, which will be held in April on national event, and the students are ready Contact the Office of International Evaluation of Graduate Education supports Dillard’s campus, will feature international for it,” said Dawson-Smith. She hopes the Students & Study Abroad Programs at the initiative. food, music, dance and crafts. Guests will event will raise funds to help Dillard stu- (504) 816-4926. Dr. Kimya Dawson-Smith, the director of Dillard’s Office of International Students and Study Abroad Programs, has been thrilled by the response of the Brazilian government and the students themselves. Scatter the good things. She said the program came together more quickly than her office could have hoped. Initially, a group of 20 students were It’s not what you gather, scheduled to arrive, but the speed with which the applications were processed but what you scatter . . . meant that only 18 made it to New Orleans  at’s what tells the kind of life in January. Dillard is one of the only HBCUs with a you’ve lived. Center for Intensive English Language —Unknown (CIEL). This program, founded by Dawson-Smith, teaches skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, voice, diction What will you leave behind that shows and accent reduction. After foreign students what kind of life you’ve lived? reach certain proficiency levels in their CIEL classes, they matriculate into Dillard’s traditional college curriculum. Planned gifts are one way to indicate Dillard’s CIEL instructors include Aurea Diab, Ray Brazil, Melissa Long and Ivan what is important to you and help the Watkins, whose Brazilian Cultural ministries you love continue into the Enrichment class has been a hit with many of the students. future. “It was unexpected, this opportunity to study in the U.S.A.,” said Edgar Santos. A geological engineering major, Santos is Give to the future of your church through studying not only English, but also envi- a bequest in your will, a life income gift ronmental biology and geology with Dillard’s Dr. Amy Lesen. Outside the class- or by naming your church as a bene ciary room, he and his fellow Brazilian class- of an insurance policy or retirement plan, mates have participated in Mardi Gras fes- tivities, Martin Luther King Week activi- and scatter the good things! ties, and much more. Although the students are becoming fast friends and live together in the same dor- mitories, they knew nothing about each other prior to arriving at Dillard, as they study at a variety of different universities (800) 256-9317 or (225) 346-1535 across Brazil. [email protected] “We made friends with one another online,” said Natalia Moura, a chemistry www.umf.org major. Before coming to the U.S., Moura researched Dillard University, HBCUs and MARCH 8, 2013 Louisiana Conference No Special! Dillard University Edition 7

Meet the Admissions Staff

It is a very exciting time of year in the Application (commonapp.org) or through Office of Recruitment, Admissions and the Dillard University application, which is Programming. Meeting and getting to available on our website (dillard.edu). For know prospective students and their fami- graduating seniors, it’s not too late to make lies is such a rewarding experience. I know Dillard University a viable college choice. the college admissions process is all about The Office of Recruitment, Admissions and exploring a vast array of colleges and uni- Programming also serves as an easy start- versities and deciding which among them ing point to make contact with the rest of may best suit your educational goals. For our fine campus community. We can put parents and students alike, whether you you in touch with department heads that have begun searching for schools or are delight in sharing with you the strength of still thinking about it, this is an exciting our academic programs and student servic- time in your life! You are selecting or es. searching for the institution that will form Discover for yourself the avenue of your ideas and shape your future. Is Dillard opportunities that await you at Dillard University the right choice for you? Will it University. Experience the special feeling provide what you need for professional of friendship, family, security, and academ- studies or the workforce? As you have read (Back row, L-R:) O'shel Taylor, senior admissions counselor; Michelle Paniagua, ic energy that characterize our campus. You this edition of Louisiana Now!, we hope admissions processor; Talia Pennington, senior admission counselor; Monica can take a virtual tour on our website by you have come to learn about and want to White, coordinator of campus tours and special events; Peggy Plaisant-Jackson, clicking on the Admissions tab. We offer know more about Dillard University. We admission processor. (Front row, L-R:) Christopher Stewart, admission campus tours Monday through Friday at 10 encourage you to explore our academic counselor; Dr. Alecia Cyprian, assistant vice president for Enrollment a.m. and 2 p.m. programs and the vibrant student life that Management; Calvin Haynes, admission counselor. To arrange a visit, please contact the makes up Dillard University. Office of Recruitment, Admissions and We’re committed to making a liberal affordable. Well over half our students help your family develop a plan for manag- Programming at (504) 816-4670, (800) arts education available to students from receive substantial financial aid packages ing them. You’ll find some information 216-6637 (toll-free), or families of all socioeconomic backgrounds. from the university, in addition to grants, directly from the Office of Financial Aid [email protected]. We admit students on the basis of academic loans, and jobs through federal programs. and Scholarships here in this section. Most thankful, promise and achievement and then work If college costs are a concern for you, our Our application for admission is avail- Alecia Cyprian, Ph.D. with families to make Dillard University financial aid office is ready and willing to able online through the Common Financial Aid and Scholarships Making Your College Experience Affordable

At Dillard University, we recognize abilities. Often, you don’t have to show tutional aid and encourages every stu- Dillard is especially pleased to wel- that higher education presents an impor- financial need to receive money through dent to seek out private funding sources come the matriculation of the sons and tant and significant financial commit- merit-based programs. There are four and opportunities. You are encouraged to daughters of ministers of the United ment for students and parents. This year, main types of financial aid, and this arti- apply for financial aid if you believe you Methodist Church and the United 100 percent of our new students who cle will provide an overview of each will need assistance in order to attend Church of Christ, and we enthusiastical- applied for financial aid received assis- one. Usually, a student is offered a com- Dillard University. ly encourage their collegiate experience tance to help manage their education bination of aid (known as a package) at Dillard through scholarships. Students costs. Through state and institutional from these four programs: grants, schol- Scholarships may be eligible to receive additional grants and scholarships, federal and pri- arships, student employment, and loans. The Office of Financial Aid and institutional scholarships as well. vate loans, employer tuition waivers, Scholarships awards merit-based aca- The following rules apply to work-study awards, and payment plans, demic scholarships each year to entering Ministerial Scholarships: we work with families to make Dillard Completing the Free freshmen. All scholarships are awarded The mother or father must be the pas- an affordable choice. Application for Federal for the full academic year (fall and tor (head of the church) of his or her The university awarded more than Student Assistance spring semesters). Scholarships are own church. $24 million in federal, state, institutional (FAFSA) awarded based on information submitted All applicants must complete the Free and private scholarship and grant pro- in the Dillard University admissions Application for Federal Student Aid The priority deadline date to apply application. A separate scholarship appli- gram funds to assist families. Paying for for financial aid is March 1. Applying (FAFSA). an education can sometimes seem com- cation is not required unless otherwise Applicants must provide supporting ahead of this deadline assures that you noted. All institutional scholarship plicated, but rest assured that we will will be considered for our broad range of documentation, e.g. a church program. work with you every step of the way to awards are based on a combination of The applicant (student) must be a funding options, especially limited fund- ACT/SAT scores and cumulative high ensure a smooth process and determine ing sources such as the Federal dependent student as defined by the your eligibility for assistance. We strive school grade-point average. These schol- Department of Education for purposes of Supplemental Educational Opportunity arships are four-year, renewable scholar- to provide high-quality service and equi- Grant (SEOG) and Federal Work-Study. receiving Title IV aid. table financial aid funding for all fami- ships requiring full-time enrollment. The scholarship amount is 50 percent lies. Paying to Attend of the tuition charged each year. Financial aid can be any source of Many factors affect a student’s actual Scholarships for The scholarship is limited to a maxi- funds available to help students pay for costs, such as personal lifestyle or spe- mum of four years (eight semesters). the costs of a college education. If you cific courses related to the major. How Children of Ministers of The deadline for each academic year think you will need assistance, we you will pay for your education is an the United Methodist is March 31. encourage you to apply for financial aid. important part of deciding which college Church and the United Applicants are required to apply each You can be sure that you will be treated you will attend. The Office of Financial Church of Christ year to remain eligible for the scholar- fairly and equitably with respect to stu- Aid and Scholarships at Dillard under- Dillard University cherishes, high- ship. dents in financial circumstances similar stands that many families need help “fill- lights, lifts up and celebrates its historic Students must maintain a minimum to your own. ing the gap” between what they can and continuing covenantal relationship cumulative G.P.A. of 2.2 each academic Most financial aid awards are based afford and the resources needed to pay with the United Methodist Church and year. on demonstrated financial need; howev- college costs. the United Church of Christ. These two Contact the Office of Financial Aid er, some are based solely on merit. Merit The Office of Financial Aid and great denominations enrich Dillard in a and Scholarships at (504) 816-4677, programs, including most scholarship Scholarships administers a comprehen- variety of tangible and intangible ways. (800) 216-8094 (toll-free), or finan- programs, help students with special sive program of federal, state, and insti- [email protected]. 8 Louisiana Conference No Special! Dillard University Edition MARCH 8, 2013

SASATURDAY,AATURDTURDAAYYY,, MARCHM 23, , 201320 013 10:00 a.ma.m. m. . - 2:00 pp.m..m. ProfessionalProffessionalesssional SchoolsSchools & Sciences BuildingBuild ding

Theatre Arts Music Athletics and more...

WWee welcome all prospective highhig gh school students and their familiesfammilies to visit our campusca mpus and learlearnn more about thet Dillard UniverUniversity rsitysiity eexperience.xperience. Meet with facultyffaculty,accultyy,y, staff and currentcurrrent studentsstudents.. ApplApplypp y to DU Online TToToday!ooda d aay!y!y wwwww.dillard.eduwww.dillar.dillard.edu Students wilwill ll be able to auditaudition tion forfor talent- based scholascholarships arships in Visual AArArts,ts, Theatre,Theatre, Music and AAthletics.

FForor furfurtherther informationinf fformationormation or to R.S.VR.S.V.P. VV..PP.P . contact the Of ce e of Recruitment, AdAdmissionsmissions and PrProgrammingogramgmmingg 504.816.4670 ((local phone), , 800.21800.216.6637 6.6637 (toll frfree)ee) or admissions@[email protected]

RankRankedede amongamon ng the top 10 HistoricallyHistor rically Black CollegesColleg ges and UniversitiesUniverrsitiessities bbyy U.S.U.SU.S. NewsNews & WWorldoorld ReporReportt

DillarDillardd UnivUniversityersity 2601 GentillGentillyy BoulevardBoulevvard NewNew Orleans, , LouisiaLouisiana ana 70122