Madison Grant, a sophomore majoring in Mass Communication at Xavier University of Louisiana, was recently named a scholar of the Gucci North America Changemakers Scholars Program. The program was created by the well-known fashion company Gucci. Grant was one of twelve recipients from all over the country and is determined to make a difference through her ultimate career goal of culinary multimedia content creation. 

The Gucci North America Changemakers Scholars Program was established in 2019 to support students seeking unique careers in the industries of fashion and design. The program provides recipients with a six-week summer program, a $20,000 scholarship, virtual internship opportunities and mentorship to diverse students from underrepresented communities. 

“It has been an honor leading Gucci Changemakers North America as we continue to set the industry standard for impactful and creative community-focused initiatives,” said Antoine Phillips, Vice President of Brand and Culture Engagement at Gucci America, in a recent announcement about the program. “Through this work, we are focused not only on amplifying their stories of impact, but inspiring lasting change through the power of arts and culture.” 

With a passion for culinary arts, Grant was hesitant at first to apply but gained confidence after she felt the application truly reflected the program’s mission to support careers in the design industry. Through focusing on the culinary arts, Grant seeks to highlight the role food has in the cultural traditions of different communities. 

“Gucci is a fashion house, but this program is actually about giving back to the community and bringing people who aren’t usually seen into the art world,” said Grant. “I feel like the art I create works to provide inclusion space for Black women’s narratives to be shared.” 

Grant decided that the home of traditional creole cuisine, New Orleans, Louisiana, was the best place to pursue her passion for culinary multimedia content creation. Her time at Xavier has helped her gain the experience needed to apply to the program. She is particularly grateful for the support of Dr. Shearon Roberts, associate professor and head of the department of Mass Communication, who informed Grant about the opportunity. 

“Madison embodies the ideal Gucci Changemaker Scholar. She was active in her community in her hometown of Chicago and has brought that same community-engaged mindset to New Orleans as a Xavierite,” said Dr. Roberts. “She is passionate about using the arts, media and entertainment to inspire young people and her work as a Mass Communication major reflects her desire to use media and art for social good.” 

Grant, learning from this experience, encourages any current and future Xavierites to form connections with their peers and professors to learn about future opportunities and to help build confidence.