Themed Educational Initiatives/Engagements/Updates
The SUNO REM Program also offers a variety of on-campus and off-campus events, including community outreach engagements, project competitions, the Debate Team, and speaking engagements. These events provide students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and connect with professionals in the renewable energy field. Additionally, information about upcoming meetings and conferences will be shared with staff and students interested in attending. Current Initiatives are as follows. As they are introduced, more initiatives will be updated with PR staff to add to the website.
REM Students Connect with Sustainability Leaders at Life City “Love Your City” Luncheon
In February 2026, Renewable Energy Management (REM) students attended the Life City “Love Your City” Luncheon to hear the State of Sustainability Report and engage with leaders advancing sustainability across the region.
The event provided valuable exposure to real-world sustainability initiatives and opportunities to connect with organizations committed to clean energy and environmental innovation.
Students also had the opportunity to meet Leona Tate, one of the three young girls who helped desegregate public schools in New Orleans, adding a powerful moment of history and inspiration to the experience.
In addition, Life City currently hosts Jai’Shawn Russell (center), a senior majoring in Business Administration at Southern University at New Orleans, as an intern. Russell is also a Renewable Energy Management (REM) student who will earn a Minor in Renewable Energy Management in Spring 2026, highlighting the growing partnership and the hands-on opportunities available to REM students pursuing careers in clean energy and sustainability.
Through experiences like this, the REM Program continues to connect students with industry leaders and organizations that support clean energy internships, workforce development, and community sustainability initiatives.

REM Students Left to Right: Braven Dolliole (Left), Jai'Shown Russell (center); Tracy Jessemy (Right) along with REM Program
Coordinator, Natalie Hollingshed & College of Business Dean, Dr. Igwe Udeh.

REM Student Tracy Jessemy (Left); Ms. Leona Tate (Center); REM Program Coordinator, Natalie Hollingshed
2nd Clean Energy Debate Competition: Renewable Energy Management Program
The Renewable Energy Management (REM) Program proudly supported student participation in the 2nd Clean Energy Debate Competition, showcasing academic excellence and student leadership.

Congratulations to our winner, Keion Yasin, a senior majoring in Business Administration, for winning the debate and taking home $500 in cash!

Braven Dolliole & Tracy Jessemy (No Team)
The NO Team, composed of Braven Dolliole and Tracy Jessemy, both seniors majoring in Business Administration, also delivered a strong performance and received participation giveaways in recognition of their efforts.
Debate Champions! REM 1st Clean Energy Debate Competition – April 24, 2025
On April 24, 2025, the Renewable Energy Management Program hosted its 1st Clean Energy Debate Initiatives
at SUNO.

The Topic: “Can solar power realistically replace oil in energy generation within the next 10 years?”
- The Renewable Energy Management (REM) Program partnered with the SUNO Honoré Center for Undergraduate Student Achievement to support student participation on April 24, 2025, highlighting the power of collaboration and academic excellence. Both the "Yes Team" and the "No Team" of the SUNO 1st Clean Energy Debate Teams are proud members of the Honoré Center.
- Congratulations to our winners—Kyce Vaucresson, a senior majoring in Business Administration, and Otho Johnson, a junior majoring in Education—for winning the debate and taking home iPads! (Include photo in Word Document)
- The No Team, composed of Tyron Jackson and Vernell Lewis, both sophomores majoring in Business Administration and also members of the Honoré Center, walked away with participation giveaways in recognition of their strong performance and participation to the event.
Initiatives
- REM 6th Grade Renewable Energy Poster Board Competition - Students engaged in this initiative will learn about renewable energy and be introduced to a broader conversation about renewable energy and its impact on the future. This initiative encourages hands-on learning, creativity, and scientific exploration in a fun and engaging way!
- REM Renewable Energy Debate Team - Students will have the opportunity to engage in a stimulating conversation about the future of Renewable Energy. Various topics about clean energy and renewable energy sources are discussed.
- REM 9-12th Grade Renewable Energy