Written by Lexx Thornton
At Xavier University of Louisiana, students are empowered to pursue transformative experiences, whether locally or around the world. In an exciting milestone for the university, 12 Xavierites were awarded the prestigious Gilman International Scholarship for the 2024–25 academic year, doubling the number of recipients from the previous year. This record-breaking cohort includes Xavierites, Sean Benton, Arinek Shorter, Darria Leggett, Adia Fienagha, Caleb Delarouche, Ica Camer, Talia Scott, Ja’lyn Jones, Madison Thompson, Kelsey Bruno, Matthew Parker, and Kiya Brown.
“To have 12 Xavier students selected to receive this prestigious award is truly an honor,” said Dr. Marguerite Giguette, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs. “This recognition reflects the relentless dedication of our faculty and the staff in the Office of International Education, and it speaks to our students’ commitment to experiencing the world as they gain the knowledge needed to be leaders and agents of change.”
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, the Gilman Scholarship provides invaluable pathways for academic growth through international study and is committed to expanding the diversity of students who study and intern abroad, as well as the countries and cultures they engage with.
Two of Xavier’s scholarship recipients have each been awarded a maximum of $8,000, which includes the $5,000 from the Gilman Scholarship and an additional $3,000 from the Critical Need Language Award. This supplemental award is given on a limited basis to applicants who are studying a critical need language while abroad in a location where the language is predominantly spoken. Both students who received this award are studying Chinese, marking the first time Xavier students have received this award. Collectively, the 12 recipients have earned a total of $52,000 from the Gilman Scholarship, a remarkable testament to their dedication and the growing recognition of Xavier’s commitment to fostering global opportunities.
“This is a prestigious federal award that provides substantial subsidies for Xavier students to study abroad, which enhances their scholarship, enriches their cultural understanding, and strengthens their international competitiveness,” said Dr. Yu Jiang, Director, Office of International Education. “Winning 12 Gilman Scholarships in one academic year represents the most so far for the University, a testament to the caliber of our students’ academic strength, the excellent guidance from top University leadership, and the collective support by Xavier faculty and staff, including the Xavier’s Exponential Honors Program and the Office of International Education.”
As these students embark on their international experiences, they carry Xavier’s legacy of excellence, leadership, and service into the wider world.
