GCSU Office of Inclusive Excellence hosts mentoring luncheon

Georgia College & State University’s Office of Inclusive Excellence—in collaboration with the Kappa League of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and the Delta Gems program of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority—is hosting an inaugural luncheon this weekend, called “Mentoring Matters.” 

Alumni from these Divine 9 organizations will welcome more than 50 local students, grades 6-12, from the Milledgeville chapters of Kappa League and Delta Gems. The luncheon is at noon Saturday, June 8, in the Maxwell Student Union Banquet Room, 100 N. Clarke St., Milledgeville.

This OIE initiative supports local youth preparing for college.

“It fits well into our outreach efforts,” said GCSU Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Michael Snowden. “It’s a great opportunity to have these young students on campus, enjoying a nice lunch, and perhaps spark their interest in Georgia College.”

“The more exposure to campus they get, and the more etiquette tips they practice in this environment, the better,” he added.

Kappa League and Delta Gems offer monthly meetings that focus on college placement test preparation, scholarship information and community service projects. 

Snowden and Kappa League Advisor Dr. David Sallad developed the luncheon idea after a presentation on etiquette, during which students learned table manners, such as correct placement of soup spoons and salad forks.

The luncheon provides students a chance to practice newly acquired skills. They’ll dine at tables set with tablecloths, cloth napkins, fine dining plates and silverware. They’ll enjoy a full-course meal and background music.

“It seemed appropriate to reinforce the etiquette lesson with an actual meal,” Snowden said. “This first-time event brings these two groups together in a formal setting—allowing students to dress up, have lunch at the university and apply what they’ve learned.”

India Jackson, coordinator of diversity recruitment for Georgia College’s Office of Admissions, will give the welcoming address. Kappa Leaguer Johnathan Butts will offer the blessing of food. Sallad will teach an etiquette lesson, and Delta Gems Advisor Dr. Runee Sallad will speak on the importance of mentorship. Snowden will give concluding remarks.

He hopes to make this meal an annual event. 

“This demonstrates GCSU’s dedication to the success of future scholars,” Snowden said. “By visiting campus, students start to form a relationship with the university, potentially choosing to matriculate here as they consider their next educational steps.”

“We look forward to building this tradition yearly,” he said.