Xavier uses Live Music Fridays to promote wellness, safety
Story By Kennedi Bell
Like Memphis is for the blues and Detroit is for Motown, New Orleans is for jazz. New Orleans is one of the most music-centric cities in the country. Popular movies like “The Princess and the Frog” remind audiences of the relationship between New Orleans and music.
The effect music has on the residents, industries, sports teams and colleges is contagious. Xavier University of Louisiana is the only Catholic HBCU in the country and produces more Black doctors than any other school. The university is also known for Live Music Fridays, sponsored by the music department.
Live Music Friday is one of many campus activities that allow students to be informed and get involved.
Zoey Mayberry, a volleyball player at Xavier, said, “Live Music Fridays are very lively. There’s always a good crowd of people that shows up, and it’s a good way to get away from classes for a little bit.”
Student Government Association is always an important participant at Live Music Fridays. The music brings the crowd, and SGA keeps students informed about the importance of political issues, voting, representation and advocacy.
A Xavier freshman took her own life recently. As a result, one of the messages that SGA is sharing with the student body is: You are not alone. The college experience can be tough. As students and student-athletes juggle heavy schedules, it can feel overwhelming. It is crucial to develop a good balance between work and enjoying the college experience to avoid burnout.
Xavier’s Divine 9 fraternities and sororities are also involved with campus life and usually make an appearance at Live Music Friday and games. When songs like “Wipe Me Down” or “Atomic Dog” comes on, it’s time to make room because the fraternities will be coming through with whistles, high knees and all.
Live Music Friday is also a way to share updates regarding campus safety and safe practices when students travel off campus. The music is the draw so the message can be delivered. Xavier provides a mobile application called XULA SAFE that keeps students up to date and connected to help at all times.
Alexander, a cheerleader at Xavier, said, “Live Music Friday is great to connect and to allow students the opportunity to be themselves and allows us time to breathe.”
Xavier is a great place to be. Students will be tested in the classroom and in their respective sports. Being a Xavierite puts a chip on your shoulder where you learn to overcome adversity, advocate for yourself and learn who you are as a person. Whether you’re a student-athlete or a student, it is scary at first, but ultimately you learn who you are through hardships and successes.
