New Orleans, LA – Dillard University students, Madisyn N. Hicks ‘25 and DeAndrew W. Thomas ‘25, were selected as 2024 White House HBCU Scholars.
Hicks and Thomas will serve as student ambassadors for the initiative and ensure information, resources, and opportunities are distributed at Dillard University. They are invited to attend the 2024 Annual National HBCU Week Conference designed to hone their skills in leadership and innovation among stakeholders in the private sector, government agencies, and philanthropic organizations.
DeAndrew W. Thomas, a senior English major from Thibodaux, Louisiana, exemplifies leadership as the 89th Student Government Vice President and a Spring 2023 initiate of the Epsilon Alpha Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Upon graduation, DeAndrew plans to pursue a Master’s Degree in Public Administration.
He expressed his enthusiasm for this opportunity, stating,“Being a White House Scholar gives me the opportunity to represent our HBCU on a national level and advocate for resources needed to sustain HBCUs.”
Madisyn N. Hicks, a senior Urban Studies and Public Policy major with a minor in Criminal Justice from Shreveport, Louisiana, also demonstrates a profound commitment to service and activism. As the President of the Bleu Green Krewe, Dillard’s environmental group, and Parliamentarian of Curvy Girlz, Madisyn has shown remarkable leadership. She is also a member of the Thompson-Cook Honor Society, Sister 2 Sister, and a proud member of the Beta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Following her graduation, Madisyn aims to further her education and advocate for food security within Black and Brown communities.
She shared her perspective on the scholarship, saying, “Becoming a White House Scholar has shown me just how God will surpass all that you could ever ask or imagine. This recognition allows me to show young Black women all that is possible when you work hard and stay dedicated to your truth. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and experiences this honor will bring to me and my Communiversity.”
Hicks and Thomas are among 110 students from 77 HBCUs across the nation who have been selected for their exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and dedication to their communities.They will network with other scholars, federal agencies, and private partners throughout the academic school year to showcase individual and collective talent across the HBCU community.
Dillard students selected to participate in the Initiative in previous years include Jerika Edwards ’23, Tyler Finley ‘24, Spencer Jones ’23, Marissa Pittman ‘24, and Kalaya Sibley ’23.Click here to read the full press release by the U.S. Department of Education.
