Louise Ba
St. Catherine University
Louise Ba is an Antonian Honors student who speaks five languages and is pursuing a bachelor degree in Political Science, Economics, and Public Policy. Louise is motivated to be a changemaker and public problem-solver. She has learned through many challenges that she is part of unique and beautiful communities, and that she has the ability to ensure that her activism is intersectional. Within and beyond St. Kate’s “gates,” she has already had a tremendous impact. From mentoring of students of color through St. Kate’s Multicultural and International Programs and Services Office to educating other students through the Peer Money Mentors program to her work to bring increased diversity to the field of Economics through the Minnesota Center for Diversity in Economics, she is paving a broader path so that more people can access and excel in higher education and their careers. Louise will contribute greatly to the Newman Civic Fellowship and bring to fruition Campus Compact’s strategy to create a national network of engaged student leaders. I have no doubt that Louise will apply the skills she learns through the fellowship to create positive change.
Personal Statement
I am studying Political Science, Economics and Public Policy at St. Catherine University. I am committed to intersectional activism and service through my involvement in Student Senate as the Diversity Chair, Liaison Officer for our international student organization, research in the Political Science and Economics department, and founding Justice Reads, a club dedicated to social justice through literature. The moment that I felt like a true activist was when I co-led a peaceful protest in response to the murder of Daunte Wright, which was inspiring because I felt like I was meant to be in that space. I bridge my on-campus efforts to the broader community by teaching Minneapolis Public School 8th graders through Learning Works, and interning at the Minnesota House of Representatives. When I was a kid, I found it difficult to navigate and be proud of my differing intersectional identities because I negatively internalized society’s harsh depictions of my identities. I now know that not only do I have the blessing of being able to be a part of such unique and beautiful communities, but I also have the opportunity to ensure that my activism is intersectional.
