“Participating in the HBCU panel hosted by Essence was an eye-opening experience. It was great interacting with other local HBCU students while informing the youth of the importance of these institutions,” said Zion Rouege, Mister Xavier, and senior biology pre-med major. “Thank you to Essence and Coca-Cola for providing a platform for African-American students to advocate and educate.”  

Nina Giddens and Zion Rouege, the Mister and Miss Xavier-elect, were panelists in this year’s Essence Girls United Day of Service during the Historically Black College or University (HBCU) Students panel. The HBCU student panel was hosted at the Ashé Cultural Arts Center to kick off the 2022 Essence Festival of Culture. Student panelists from Xavier and neighboring HBCUs were asked to share their individual experiences and their future plans to inspire young leaders observing in the audience. 

“It was an honor to speak at the Essence Girls United Day of Service Block Party. The event not only celebrated the Black youth but took time to emphasize the importance and benefits of an HBCU education,” said Nina Giddens, Miss Xavier-elect and senior public health pre-law major. “I am grateful to kick off Essence Fest by speaking with future HBCU students.”  

Girls United is an Essence-affiliated multi-media platform created to connect Black youth to culture, entertainment, entrepreneurship, relationships and politics, primarily focusing on Black women. Essence Culture Festival is an annual event sponsored by Coca-Cola held in New Orleans to celebrate Black culture, music, food, fashion, and community.