Xavier alumni La’Shance Perry (‘21) and Nigell Moses (‘21) were named fellows of Verite News’ inaugural one-year fellowship program. Perry and Moses will work as full-time reporters alongside Verite’s veteran, award-winning journalism team.

The fellowship offers mentorship, educational programs, and seminars presented by top journalists and writers. The fellowship supports Verite’s mission to examine inequities facing New Orleans’ unserved communities. Verite is a non-profit organization that provides local communities with crucial information and supports positive, systemic change. In alignment with Xavier’s mission to create a more just and humane society, Verite aims to produce a valuable standard of living for all.

Graduating with their Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications in 2021, Perry and Moses are excited to be part of Verite’s illustrious team of leaders and use their Xavier knowledge to break ground in the journalism industry. Perry, a Cincinnati, Ohio native, is proud to use her love of storytelling to impact New Orleans communities.

“Verite is founded on the principles of reporting truth, facts, and fairness to give New Orleans natives the real news they want to hear. As an aspiring filmmaker, I know the skills I’m learning in this program will help me to become the best storyteller I can be,” said Perry. “I’m truly grateful for my education and the opportunities I received during my time at Xavier. I know that without Xavier’s Marketing and Communications Department and the Mass Communication division, I would not be the professional I am today.”

Perry and Moses strongly believe their Xavier education has successfully prepared them to advance in their journalism careers. As a New Orleans native, Moses is proud to use her passion for media to address significant issues prevalent to her hometown.

“We’re hitting the ground running. I’ve covered stories related to community engagement and public safety for New Orleans residents,” said Moses. “I’m grateful and excited to be mentored by powerhouse journalists like Terry Baquet and Tim Morris. The skills that I’ve gained through Xavier’s Mass Communication Department have prepared me for this experience.”

Perry and Moses are honored to be part of Verite’s fellowship class and amplify the voices of the New Orleans community. Through their fellowship, they exemplify Xavier’s values by assuming roles that will make a difference and allow them to be of service to others.

For more information about Verite’s inaugural fellows, click here.