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Athletics: Louisiana’s Geaux Cajuns Educational Program Finishes First Year of CurriculumStudent-athlete development initiative begins making impact with the Ragin’ Cajuns LAFAYETTE – Louisiana Athletics’ push to enhance the student-athlete experience at the University of Louisiana paid big dividends during the 2017-18 academic year, as the first season of the new Geaux Cajuns Program comes to a close. Committed to inspiring, engaging and advancing student-athletes outside of their respective areas of competition, the Geaux Cajuns Program covered topics of personal and professional growth. Throughout the Fall of 2017, programming included seminars on building and communicating healthy relationships, a career fair for all junior and senior student-athletes and self-defense training. An added emphasis on community involvement is a pride point of the Geaux Cajuns Program. During the fall semester, Ragin’ Cajuns student-athletes volunteered more than 2,000 hours of community service. Events included a diaper drive, Halloween hospital visits and an adopt-a-family program during the months of November and December. Into the Spring of 2018, group discussions have taken place on self-esteem and self-discovery, as well as the development of a championship mindset. Additionally, the Ragin’ Cajuns’ student-athletes participated in a DiSC assessment (dominance, inducement, submission, and compliance) to better understand their own behavioral traits and improve communication and chemistry with fellow teammates. Spring community service events have included a new partnership with the Boys & Girls Club, Valentine’s Day hospital visits, participation in the Read Across America initiative and the food drive conducted around Louisiana Football’s Spring Finale. In addition, the Ragin’ Cajuns were actively involved in the Sun Belt Conference’s Mental Health Week, raising awareness and advocacy to "Break the Stigma" surrounding mental health and wellness. Stay tuned for new developments as the Geaux Cajuns Program continues its role in facilitating the overall growth and development of Louisiana’s more than 400 student-athletes.
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