Dillard University Senior Honored for Academic and Artistic Achievements in Film
New Orleans, LA — The New Orleans Chapter of the Coalition of 100 Black Women has awarded Dillard University senior Kennedy Davis a prestigious scholarship, recognizing her academic achievements, dedication to film, and commitment to community empowerment. Davis, who is from Houston, is majoring in film with a minor in Mass Communications and anticipates graduating in 2025. Davis received her award during the Coalition’s annual gala on Saturday, November 2, 2024, an inspiring evening that celebrated scholarship recipients and community leaders.
“Empowering My Future and Supporting My Studies”
For Davis, this scholarship provides both financial relief and an opportunity to pursue her career aspirations with renewed focus. “Receiving this scholarship impacts my educational and career goals immensely, as it helps cover the costs of my education,” says Davis. “It not only alleviates my financial stress but empowers me to fully engage in my studies and develop the skills necessary to succeed in my chosen field.”
Academic and Creative Achievements
Davis’s academic journey has been marked by notable accomplishments, including winning the Best Short Film award at Dillard University’s annual student awards ceremony. Currently, she is completing her latest project, King Cake, a comedy set on Fat Tuesday, which will be screened in the campus movie theater. In addition to her studies, Davis serves as Vice President of DU Pride, an organization fostering inclusivity on campus.
Paving the Path Forward
After graduating, Davis plans to attend graduate film school to further her expertise in directing and screenwriting. Her long-term vision includes sharing her knowledge with the next generation through film workshops at her former high school in Brookshire, Texas. “I plan to teach kids about photography, videography, animation, and documentary filmmaking,” she says. “Hopefully, I will be able to establish a scholarship fund myself one day.”
Guidance and Gratitude
Although she doesn’t have specific role models, Davis draws inspiration from the accomplishments of those around her. Her family and friends have been pillars of support, celebrating each of her achievements and encouraging her through challenges. “They show love, and I appreciate them for that,” Davis said.
Davis advises other students to build relationships and seize opportunities: “Networks are everything. Build relationships with professors and peers, as they can open doors to career-changing opportunities.” She also encourages resilience, reminding others, “Don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on improving yourself 1% every day.”
Embodiment of the Coalition’s Mission
Davis sees this award as perfectly aligned with the Coalition of 100 Black Women’s mission of empowerment. “I plan to embody those values by giving back to young Black women like myself,” she said. “Being selected by the Coalition means the world to me. I am just grateful that I was picked.”
About the Coalition of 100 Black Women, New Orleans Chapter
The Coalition of 100 Black Women is dedicated to empowering and uplifting Black women and girls through leadership development, public policy advocacy, and community service. The New Orleans Chapter is committed to creating opportunities for academic and career advancement for the next generation of Black women leaders.
