Parish Living Learning Community

Snapshot

In partnership with the Cultural Center, the Parish LLC welcomes students who are a part of or interested in learning more about Black culture and the various experiences among students in the African/Black diaspora. Its name symbolizing a community of a shared belief of academic excellence and cultural expression, this community offers students structured learning experiences through various courses using a cohort model. Students will also participate in the Cultural Center retention program where they will receive support in areas including academic engagement, personal and professional development, and mentor support. In addition, students in the living learning community will explore student involvement and gain leadership skills through various recognized student organizations affiliated with the Cultural Center.

Location: Belknap Village North

Advisors: Kennedy Frye and Leondra Gully 

Highlights

Highlights

• Exploration of Black culture and history through programming, community building and service opportunities
• Increased scholarship retention rate for scholarship recipients when compared to first year scholarship recipients who do not live in the LLC
• Programming that promotes academic success, civic engagement, and cultural awareness
• One-on-one coaching aimed to promote a successful transition from high school to college
• Intentional connections to campus resources
• Networking opportunities with peers and Black faculty & staff

Programming

• Personal development sessions exploring topics including study skills, time management, networking, resiliency, self-care, identity development and community building 
• Hussle University (entrepreneurship): Using the financial and entrepreneurial principals of the late Nipsey Hussle and other thought leaders of wealth building to educate students to be financially sound and independent. This three-part series also includes essential tips to gain employment and enter the workforce in any career field. 

Note: All programming and meetings will be delivered in-person and/or virtually pending the university policies and procedures regarding COVID-19.

Who can apply?

• Any first-year students who are a part of or interested in learning more about Black culture

Required Courses

• POLS 111
• ENG 101 or ENG 102 (for students who arrive with credit for ENG 101)

Meet the Advisors

Advisor Name: Kennedy Frye (She/Her)
Advisor Contact: kennedy.frye@louisville.edu

My name is Kennedy Frye, and I was born and raised right here in Louisville, KY! I attended UofL during undergrad and am now pursing my master’s at the Kent Schol of Social Work. One of my favorite things to do is eat good food and play with my dog, Bentley.

Advice for LLC/TC Students:

I would advise you to get more involved on campus this year. Attend events & join RSO’s that align with your interests. Also don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and try new things!

Advisor Name: Leondra Gully (She/Her)
Advisor Contact: Leondra.gully@louisville.edu

Leondra Gully is the Director of Black & Multiracial Initiatives in the Cultural Center. Her role in includes enhancing the diversity and academic excellence of the campus through coordinating several student success initiatives in the Cultural Center, collaborating with campus partners on programming and serving on various campus committees. She serves as the advisor for the Woodford R. Porter Scholarship Program in addition to co-coordinating Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) STEM initiative designed to support underrepresented students and advising several recognized student organizations including the Black Student Union and the Society of Porter Scholars.