New McNeese Reginald Lewis Scholars 

McNeese State University finance major Omari Francis and criminal justice major Christian Malbreaux have been selected as part of the third cohort of the Reginald F. Lewis Scholars program sponsored by the University of Louisiana System (ULS). 

This program is part of the commitment by the ULS to produce Louisiana’s most educated generation by the year 2025.  

The Reginald F. Lewis Scholarship is a three-year program focused on enhancing the educational experience for exemplary Black male students in the areas of academic, social advancement and community service through research experience, study abroad, service-learning projects and mentorship opportunities. 

As Reginald F. Lewis Scholars, both students will receive full tuition scholarships and benefit from a number of community experiences, including a partnership with the Universities of Louisiana Management & Leadership Institute and an annual scholars’ retreat.  

“I am looking forward to all the networking opportunities that the scholarship will bring me as well as the bonds I will be forming with fellow scholars,” said Francis. “The RFL Scholars program will mold me into a successful Black man by introducing me to situations that can make me better.” 

Francis, a sophomore from Lafayette, chose to major in finance to learn how money moves through the economy and more about budgeting and investing to expand wealth. 

“I want to be a civil lawyer and help get people out of tight spots,” explained Malbreaux, a sophomore from Iowa. “I believe the RFL Scholars program will help me grow as a man.”