When students come to LSU, they usually do not expect to make any major universitywide policy changes by the time they leave. But, not the students in EXCEL.
This group of African-American students works toward one major goal every semester, and then makes an extensive proposal to the University’s administration for further reviewal and deliberation.
EXCEL, which will charter a mentoring program, presented its proposal in a unveiling event in the African American Cultural Center Monday night.
“We are trying to focus on something that can benefit the entire University,” said Maurice Gipson, a finance sophomore and EXCEL president. “We are definitely breaking new ground with this program. The first year of any program is integral. Hopefully, there will be a ripple effect and there will be no reason it can’t continue and become a really beneficial program.”
In response to the desegregation order, “EXCEL II LSU,” the proposed program, will pair mentors from the University with area high school “mentees.” To try increasing minority enrollment, the mentees will participate in activities such as classes, residential living and campus organizations that will allow them to see what life at LSU is like.
With the program, the students want to help do their part to diversify the campus and increase minority recruitment and retention.
“We need to meet the challenge of diversifying LSU,” said Katrice Albert, Office of Multicultural Affairs assistant director. “I think if we get dedicated students that are a part of the process, they will be more willing to be a good mentor to a prospective student.”
Those in attendance seemed optimistic about the proposed program.
“I’m very impressed,” said Karen Denby, the assistant vice chancellor of academic affairs and dean of enrollment management. “They are a bunch of students who are trying to connect with other students. I think it will turn into something great.”
EXCEL hopes to enlist 50 mentors to help orient 100 mentees in its first year.
“It takes a lot to impress me,” said Bonnie Alford, director of orientation for Spring Testing. “I think the students should be commended on both their research and professionalism. They realize the importance of the Master Plan, and that really impresses me.”
The program is spread during an entire semester, with the mentees getting the chance to attend events such as Harambeé and the MLK celebration.
EXCEL members hope the program will expose the mentees to strong campus leaders and increase the chances of the mentee returning to attend the University full time.
“We are trying to give back to the University that has given us so much,” said Kodi Collins, a biological engineering sophomore and EXCEL secretary. “With EXCEL II LSU, we can definitely have a positive effect on minority recruitment and help students who want to be involved on campus get oriented faster.”