University of New Orleans students Eian Bailey of LaPlace, La., and Joshua Joubert of Lake Charles, La., have been selected for the University of Louisiana System’s Reginald F. Lewis Scholars program. Each year, 18 rising sophomores are chosen based on academic merit, financial need and demonstrated leadership skills.

The three-year program, created in 2021, is designed to enhance the collegiate experience of Black male students enrolled in the UL System’s nine universities. The students are provided educational programs, mentoring opportunities and co-curricular experiences, including a chance to study abroad during their junior year in college.

Bailey, a graduate of East St. John High School, is studying planning and urban studies. He is a strong proponent of the idea that our environment feeds into us and we feed into our environment. Working with the scholars program will open the door to many opportunities for him, Bailey said.

Joubert, a graduate of Hamilton Christian School, is majoring in film studies and wants to become a producer or assistant director. Joubert said he feels very honored to be a part of the scholars program.

The rising sophomores will join current UNO students Brandon Everett, an international studies major; Brandon Irvin Jr., an education major; Robert Hill, an art history major, and Rabruntae Rachal, an industrial/organizational psychology major.