“Upward Bound has been an irreplaceable experience,” said Clark, a senior at Ballard High School and the mistress of ceremony at the banquet. “Without it I would have been completely lost in the college application process. It isn’t just academics that Upward Bound has helped me with, it’s the lifelong bonds that I’ve formed as well. I think without Upward Bound the course of my life would be completely different, and not for the better.”

Upward Bound, a federally funded program that has existed on the University
of Louisville’s Belknap Campus for more than 50 years, serves high school students from low-income and first-generation families. The goal of the Upward Bound Program is to increase the rate at which its participants enroll in and graduate from institutions of post-secondary education.

The banquet was held at the Brown & Williamson Clubhouse and celebrated the seniors that participated in the program and recognized more than 90 of the participating 165 students in the program who attained a 3.0 GPA or higher.

“The University of Louisville exists for one primary purpose and that is to educate our students and produce a citizenry that’s prepared to go forth and take their rightful place in this society,” Ralph Fitzpatrick, vice president for community engagement, said during the ceremony. “I’m proud as a vice president at the University of Louisville to go back to my institution tomorrow and report that all is well.”

Dwayne Compton, associate dean for community engagement and diversity and the chief diversity officer for UofL’s School of Medicine, was the guest speaker for the evening.

“I oftentimes see students and see myself when I was sitting in your seats,” Compton said. “Do self-reflection, think about what it is that you want out of life and establish your own partnership of success.”

More information about the UofL’s Upward Bound program is .

“The demand for online learning options continues to grow across all areas of study and fields and more adult students gravitate toward online learning methods than ever before,” said Gale Rhodes, vice provost and executive director of the Delphi Center. “We want to be at the forefront of meeting the demand for flexible and affordable learning for all professionals.”

UofL’s Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning, which provides programming and other resources to faculty members that encourage excellence in teaching and foster student learning, started working with academic units in 2001 to offer online programs.ĚýCriminal Justice, Public Administration and Human Resource łÉČËÖ±˛Ą were the first online programs offered at UofL.

With the addition of the five new degrees, UofL now offers 29 online programs. This is the first time so many have been added at once. This expansion will broaden access to education for students who are not able to come to campus and want to earn a degree from UofL.

“We envision more accelerated growth as online learning becomes a strategic goal for UofL and its colleges and academic units,” Rhodes said. “We want to be strategic in aligning our online programs with the growth and needs across industries, not only here in Kentucky but also across the U.S. and even abroad.”

All programs can be viewed .

“It breaks my heart that kids lose their homes for expressing their identity,” said Chavis, a host of Dining at the Mansions for the second year. “We have to make sure everyone feels like they have a home and somewhere they belong.”

Dining at the Mansions is a fundraiser benefiting UofL’s LGBT Center that offers a night of fine dining in one of six Old Louisville mansions. The night includes a reception and a full-course, gourmet meal.

“Dining at the Mansions is such a fun event and a chance to have an elegant meal in Louisville’s most beautiful mansions, but it’s so much more than that,” said Brian Buford, assistant provost for diversity and executive director of the LGBT Center. “To me, it’s our community coming together to wrap its arms around LGBT young people and make sure that they have the support and resources they need to be successful. It’s everything I love about our compassionate city.”

This year’s event is Saturday, April 14. The reception starts at 6 p.m. at the 1888 Historic Rocking Horse Manor Bed & Breakfast. Attendees can choose which mansion to dine at by reserving a seat . Each mansion has different chefs and a different menu.

Reservations for the event are free, however attendees are encouraged to donate a minimum of $100 dollars per plate.

The hosts will have a friendly competition to see who can raise the most money. Last year, they raised over $18,000 collectively.

“I think for our students to see the surrounding community doing this for them is a tremendous feeling,” Buford said. “It’s what many LGBT youth missed growing up — the sense that they belong somewhere and that they are cherished for who they are. Old Louisville and these generous homeowners are having an impact that reinforces our vision for inclusion here on campus.”

Local sponsors for the event include Proof on Main, Jack Fry’s and Butchertown Grocery.

More information about Dining at the Mansions is .Ěý

“I like PINK because it’s a free and welcoming environment, you can get on stage and people will clap and cheer you on,” Black said. “It’s a healthy, queer home away from home.”

PINK, now in its 21st year, kicks off at 7 p.m. Friday, March 30 at Play Dance Bar in Butchertown. It’s the first time the show has taken place off-campus, as the usual venue, the Student Activities Center is under renovation.

“They are incredible community partners,” Lisa Gunterman, director of the LGBT Center, said about Play. “They are supportive of our students and are donating all proceeds from the cover charge and table and booth sales to UofL’s LGBT Center.”

PINK is the longest-running, student-organized fundraiser at UofL. The event provides an opportunity for students, faculty, staff and the broader community to celebrate the rich culture and diversity of UofL’s LGBTQ community.

Tickets are $5 for any students with ID and $10 for general admission. Reservations for booths and tables . Attendees are also encouraged to bring cash to tip performers. Proceeds benefit students served by the LGBT Center.

The show will be preceded by a pre-PINK cocktail reception from 5:30-6:30 p.m., also at Play Dance Bar. There will also be an official PINK after party from 9:30-11:00 p.m. at Lola at Butchertown Grocery, which will feature signature cocktails, food, and door prizes.

More information about PINK is .

Created in 1937, the Fryberger Greek Sing competition honors Mrs. Agnes Moore Fryberger, a music professor at UofL who inspired a love and appreciation of music in her students.

“Fryberger is optional, however most organizations really enjoy it and look forward to participating every year,” said Fryberger chair and member of Pi Beta Phi, Catherine Vish. “All of the Panhellenic sororities are participating this year and most of the IFC fraternities are.”

Guests will witness elaborate musical productions, complete with costumes and choreography. Each organization will have a unique theme. A winner will be selected from both the sororities and fraternities. This there are five technical judges, as well as an alumni judge from each organization

Fryberger tickets are $25 and are available at The Louisville Palace box office atĚý625 S. 4th St.ĚýorĚý.

Proceeds from this year’s show will benefit raiseRed, a dance marathon to raise money for children with pediatric cancer and several Fryberger scholarships.

The princesses earn their spots through high scholastic achievements and dedication to service within the community. The winner of the crown will be determined on April 14 by a spin-of-the-wheel at the annual Fillies Derby Ball.

Dunaway, from Leitchfield, Kentucky, decided to attend UofL’s College of Business because of the accomplished professors and networking opportunities. SheĚýserves as chairman of Outreach in the College of Business Student Council and is active in the community, volunteering at Portland Elementary and Adopt-A-Highway.

UofLNews had the chance to talk to Dunaway about why she embarked on this journey and the process of becoming a princess:Ěý

UofLNews: What has been your fondest moment so far at UofL?ĚýĚý

Dunaway:ĚýI have met so many great people that my college experience would be incomplete without. One of my fondest moments was spring semester of 2017, I was selected out of my business communications class to compete in the Northwestern Mutual Annual Fast Pitch Speech Competition. I was honored just to be selected to compete and be able to talk about my study abroad experience in Austria, I was so shocked and ecstatic when I won. I am looking forward to judging this year’s competition in March.

UofLNews: Why did you choose to embark on this journey and become a KDF princess?ĚýĚý

Dunaway: I choose to partake in the application process because I saw all the exciting events past princesses got to be a part of. Specifically, Sidney Cobb and Natalie Brown. These ladies represented UofL and the festival with utmost respect, and I wanted to have that opportunity as well. The other princesses grew up in Louisville and have always known about this opportunity and wanted to be a part of it. My connection with this program is unique because I am the first princess from my county and I have fallen in love with the Kentucky Derby Festival events and opportunities so quickly.

UofLNews: WhatĚýareĚýyourĚýfavorite things about the process?ĚýĚý

Dunaway: The Kentucky Derby Festival and The Fillies truly do treat us like royalty. I am so honored to take part in literally every festival event, knowing I’ll never be able to experience so many of these events again. It’s so exciting to go in public and see the excitement on kids faces when they see us, I will never get tired of kids asking to take pictures with us or asking for our autographs. I am so grateful for the networking opportunity and the so many amazing people we have gotten to meet. I know the other princesses and I have made a bond that will last forever.

UofLNews: What surprised you about the process?Ěý

Dunaway: I had no idea how many people were involved in the selection process and how many women in the Fillies organization spend countless hours reaching out to sponsors and accompanying us to events. I knew that the spring was going to be a busy season for me taking 16 hours this semester, working part-time downtown for my internship, and having to attend over 75 festival events. I’m sure I will be exhausted by the time the Derby is over, but I am so excited to experience all these events in so little time.

UofLNews: What is next for you as a KDF Princess?Ěý

Dunaway: We have several events that we will be attending in February, but the festival really kicks off on March 1 with Festival Unveil.ĚýI am really looking forward to this event because it a celebration that the whole community can be a part of. After being named as a princess, the festival queen will be selected at the Fillies Ball on April 14. Many people are unaware that this is a random selection. All five princesses have an equal chance at being named queen based on a spin of the wheel.Ěý

UofLNews: How do you want to change the world?Ěý

Dunaway: I’m so passionate about this world that we live in and I love learning about all the different cultures, customs and religions that inhabit it. It’s crazy how small things have impacted me throughout my life, and I hope that I have the same impact on others. I’ve always believed that a generous smile can change someone’s day, and it’s something I love to see no matter where I travel. I hope one day the world will be more accepting and understanding of others’ situations, including myself. You will find a new level of hospitality and respect within yourself once negative judgments are eliminated and differences are not only expected, but welcomed in to your life.

UofLNews: What is your favorite book?Ěý

Dunaway: It’s so hard to pick just one. The book that has probably impacted me the most directly is, “Purpose Driven Life” by Max Warren. This is such a popular book that I was against reading for so long until my dad basically threw it at me and told me to figure it out. I highly encourage it for anyone who has no idea where their life is going, and for people who think they have it all together.

UofLNews: Favorite restaurant in Louisville?ĚýĚý

Dunaway: This is such a tough question for a girl who loves to eat. Right now I am on a Royal’s Hot Chicken binge — their apple pies are a must for anyone who goes. I also really like The Post, Guaca Mole and Toast on Market.

UofLNews: Do you have any advice for incoming students?ĚýĚý

Dunaway: I promise it may not always feel like it, but these four years fly by so fast and they really are some of the best times you will ever have. Never wish these years away but have a plan for when it ends. I think the most important thing I could recommend is to stand strong in what you believe it. At so many points, your morals and beliefs will be tested, and even though sometimes your views will change, it is so important to be yourself and believe in your values. Don’t let your identity falter for others, but surround yourself with organizations and activities that encourage you to be the best you possible. Remember that your time here is not a right but a privilege, but you can always make it fun.

UofLNews: What drives/motivates you toĚýget involved and work hard?ĚýĚý

Dunaway: I am so lucky to come from such an amazing family that supports me in everything I do. My mom and sister are both extremely accomplished engineers, and my dad is one of the most-loved influencers in my hometown. For so long I felt as if I had to live up to their standards, but they have never pushed me to be anything I didn’t want to be. They would be thrilled wherever I landed in life as long as I’m happy. I however, have big dreams for myself, and having friends and family that believe in me and truly want to see me be successful is the greatest support I can have.

UofLNews: What are your plansĚýafter graduation?Ěý

Dunaway: Upon graduation I hope to pursue a masters in international business in Boston. Since I will be graduating a semester early, I plan to return to Europe and travel until my program begins. Eventually, I would like to work in consulting in an international banking firm and pursue a PhD in management.

The 16th annual International Fashion Show, sponsored by the Student Activities Board, will be held in the Student Activities Center east courts. The theme for this year’s event is “Bloom: The Awakening of Cultures.” The show will feature more than 100 models wearing attire that represents cultures from around the world. Attire is loaned from local designers and boutiques including: Francesca’s, Peach Soul, Blush Boutique and more.

For the chair of the Student Activities Board Diversity Committee and planner of this year’s show, Joseph Holland, the event is about much more than just fashion and dance.

“This event promotes the interaction of many cultural organizations and it impacts the inclusivity on campus long after the fashion show,” Holland said. “Organizations are more likely to collaborate with each other, which leads to diverse campus leaders including each other in planning and work. We’re all able to share this common space for the night and it has impact way past that night.”

A variety of student groups will perform in the show including the Indian, African, Vietnamese and Muslim student associations, the Dazzling Cardettes, Shades of Movement and the BourGeoiSie Modeling & Fashion Troupe.

There are several new and unique features this year. University student soloists will perform original pieces. There will also be a live band and a more interactive theme that holds a special surprise for attendees.

“We wanted to capture the idea behind going through seasonal changes and after every winter there is rebirth and growth and we wanted to compare that to cultural growth and understanding and appreciating the growth of cultures,” Holland said. “This is a way to celebrate each other and what it means to be immersed in a culture other than your own.”

The event begins at 7 p.m. with food. The performances begin at 8 p.m.

Presale tickets are $5 for UofL students with university ID and $8 for the community. Tickets purchased at the door will be $7 for students and $10 for the community. Tickets are available for purchase in the student involvement office at the Student Activities Center.

for more photos from the 2017 show.Ěý

The mission of the Ville’ns is to “create, reinforce, and enhance the fan experience of Cardinals Athletics.” The group’s goal is to “create an exhilarating fan atmosphere where students and student-athletes work together toward achieving the common goal of winning championships while exemplifying the tradition of Cardinals pride.”Ěý

The Ville’ns serve as spirit leaders during sports games and use banners – like the L’s Up flag that was unfurled at Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium during the football season – and other promotions to help cheer for UofL’s athletes. The Ville’ns can be found at athletic events all over campus and beyond, including at Cardinal Arena cheering on the volleyball team, hanging out at the KFC Yum! Center during basketball season, and even supporting club sports like UofL’s hockey team.

“We want Louisville to be the most feared destination on any team’s schedule in any sport and until we have that, we’re not going to quit,” said Jason Wyrick, a senior RSO Sports Administration major and vice president of the Ville’ns.

Membership in the Ville’ns organization is open to anyone with a valid UofL student ID. Students can become a member by attending a general interest meeting. Members are required to attend a certain quota of all UofL games.

“This is the most important time for this,” said Ian Kirk, a junior from Lawrenceburg and president of the Ville’ns. “I think everyone loves Louisville but nobody has had the torch to lead the way. We need something to unify us as a school and as a city. The Ville’ns is more than a student section, it’s a culture.”

In the future, the Ville’ns hope to make busingĚýand transportation available for students to games held off campus. Upcoming promotions at basketball games include a Red Out, a White Out, a Neon Out, and an Ugly Sweater Night to celebrate the holidays.Ěý

More information about the group is .

The Gift of Life Challenge, an initiative of the Donate Life Kentucky Coalition, began in 2000 to build awareness about organ donation and has since added thousands of names to the Kentucky Organ Donor Registry. Every name added to the Kentucky Donor Registry gives hope to more than 116,000 Americans and over 1,000 Kentuckians in need on the transplant waiting list.

Louisville has the highest concentration of donor families and organ transplant recipients.

“We’re so pleased that the state’s biggest universities understand the importance of organ donation and getting their students involved in something bigger than themselves,” said Crysta McGee, community educator of KODA, and UofL alumna. “This challenge underscores their commitment to giving hope to those waiting.”

University of Louisville supporters can sign up during activities on campus and when joining the Kentucky Organ Donor Registry online.Ěý Those registering can choose “UofL Gift of Life” under the tab titled “the following influenced my decision to be an organ donor.”

UofL will have several activities and in-person opportunities to register including a blood drive, hosted by UofL’s Trew Friends chapter, on Nov. 16 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Red Barn. The Heather Trew Foundation for Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation is dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of donation among individuals of all ages. Appointments for the blood drive can be scheduled online with the sponsor codeĚý“uoflcards.”

“You have the power to help save someone’s life,” said Tonia Thomas, advisor of the Trew Friends chapter at UofL. “The Gift of Life Challenge and Red Cross Blood Drive is offering you two ways that you can help save lives; by donating blood and by registering to be an organ donor when you pass away. Your contribution can truly make a difference in someone else’s life.“

The challenge runs through Dec. 1. The winning school will receive a trophy at halftime of the UofL vs. UK men’s basketball game on Dec. 29 at Rupp Arena in Lexington.

To join the challenge, .Ěý

Often referred to as the Divine Nine, NPHC isĚýa collaborative organization of nine historically Black, international Greek lettered fraternities and sororities.

“Homecoming weekend was amazing and I am so grateful I was able to be apart of such a historical group of events,”Ěýsaid Corey Thomas, NPHC president and member of Kappa Alpha Psi.

Throughout the years, UofL has strived to support NPHC growth on campus.

“It was intentional that we would have the Divine 9 here,” said Michael Mardis, dean of students. “Our goal at the university is student success and one of the goals that I was charged with when hired was to create a vibrant campus life here at UofL. Part of that vibrant campus life is creating engagement opportunities so that students will have a greater opportunityĚýto be successful.”

The strategic effort to enhance NPHC began in 2006, when a suite in Community Park was developed so that NPHC organizations could have a gathering place on campus.ĚýIn 2009, a committee outlined steps to address organizational sustainability, and essential steps to ensure future NPHC success on campus.ĚýIn 2011, an official NPHC coordinator full-time position was approved.

“The fact that the Divine 9 is on the University of Louisville’s campus is something beautiful to see,” said Thomas. “The university does indeed recognize us for who we are and what we do as a black body.”Ěý

The Division of Student Affairs hosted a variety of NPHC events during Homecoming 2017 including:

• The NPHC Step Show at The Louisville Palace
• An NPHC/AAAC Step Show Reception @ SET
• An NPHC 25thĚýAnniversary Pre-game Tailgate which saw more than 400 attendees
• On field recognition at the homecoming football game. Mardis and Mordean Taylor-Archer, vice president of Diversity and International Programs, welcomed a current student and alum from each NPHC organization, as well as the NPHC Student President and the NPHC Alumni President
• An NPHC Group Worship Service at Bates Memorial Baptist Church
• An NPHC 25thĚýCelebration featuring national Keynote speaker Tish Norman on the topic: “A Photographic History of Black Fraternalism”

“I have never been to a tailgate before so it was really fun to be able hang out with not only my peers but also meet and mingle with alumni,” said Thomas. “Walking out onto the field during the homecoming football game and to be recognized by the university was an experience of a lifetime. I hope that this is something that can be done every year because I think it is important for the NPHC to be noticed not only to gain exposure but to allow us to showcase unity on a predominately white institution.”

The photo album for the entire weekend is located .