House Call

Leaders Esteem Celebrates Excellence at Inaugural Graduation Ceremony, Honoring Over 50 Graduates and Esteemed Honorees

Published on April 9, 2025

Lafayette, LA – March 16, 2025 — A new chapter in academic excellence and leadership was written as Leaders Esteem Christian Bible University (LECBU) hosted its inaugural graduation ceremony in the heart of Lafayette. The historic event marked a powerful beginning for a legacy destined to uplift and empower future generations. With over 50 graduates walking across the stage—representing diverse industries and global regions—the celebration honored the relentless pursuit of purpose, faith, and professional distinction.

The atmosphere was electric as family, friends, and supporters gathered to recognize the achievements of the university’s first graduating class. These individuals, many of whom are seasoned business professionals, have demonstrated unwavering dedication to growth, both spiritually and professionally, and are now poised to make even greater impact in their communities.

Adding to the evening’s grandeur was the presence of celebrity honorees whose contributions to faith, culture, and leadership mirror the very principles Leaders Esteem was built upon. Among the evening’s most inspirational moments were the powerful words shared by Dr. Mia X, Dr. Koryn Hawthorne, Dr. Nikki Gilbert, Dr. “Cupid”, and The Williams Family, who each received honors for their outstanding work and influence. Their heartfelt messages encouraged graduates to remain resilient, stay rooted in faith, and lead with purpose.

“This isn’t just a graduation—it’s a celebration of transformation, purpose, and the powerful future our graduates are stepping into,” said Dr. Vernon Wiggins, Leaders Esteem Ambassador. “Tonight represents more than degrees—it’s about destiny.”

Beyond the caps and gowns, the event underscored Leaders Esteem’s deep commitment to community uplift and educational access. A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of a $2,500 scholarship to North Side High School, ensuring one deserving senior will have the financial means to pursue a college education. Moved by the moment, Dr. Koryn Hawthorne further cemented the evening’s legacy by personally pledging an additional $1,000 scholarship to support another aspiring student’s academic journey.

The graduation was attended by a host of dignitaries and community leaders, including Councilman Kenneth Boudreaux, Dr. Josh Edmond, Chancellor of LECBU Louisiana, North Side High School Principal James Rollins, and Amy Trahan, School Board Member District 4. Their attendance highlighted the widespread support and belief in Leaders Esteem’s mission to transform lives through education, mentorship, and faith-based leadership.

As Leaders Esteem looks ahead, this unforgettable ceremony sets a powerful precedent for future graduations and initiatives. The university’s mission to “educate, elevate, and empower” will continue to shine through its global outreach, community impact, and steadfast belief in the potential of every student it serves.

For more information about Leaders Esteem, upcoming events, or how to support its mission:

Website: www.lecbu.net

Email: [email protected]

Stay connected as Leaders Esteem continues to develop world-class leaders with hearts of service and minds set on purpose.

Related Topics:Featured, Leaders Esteem Christian Bible University

InDaHouse

Celebrity photographer and disabled Vietnam veteran Jerome Dorn embodies the very definition of resilience. Born in Philadelphia, the fifth of seven children, Dorn stayed focused throughout his youth, eventually obtaining his degree in Criminal Justice. Dorn has worked with the Philadelphia Police Department, Department of Justice, World Wide Detective Agency, and several other high profile security groups. Throughout his successful career, Dorn wrestled with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, an aftereffect of his military service. Battling the pain and debilitating effect of PTSD, Dorn found comfort behind the camera. Photography proved to be not only therapeutic, but life changing as well. Dorn picked up his first camera in 1970 while serving in Vietnam and knew instantly that behind the lens was where he belonged. His shooting style and photographs were special, generating a buzz in the industry. In 1985, he began his career in photojournalism, working in a variety of genres. Dorn’s credentials include fashion, lifestyle photography, photojournalism, and celebrity/red carpet coverage. Working with MSNBC, Jet Magazine, and major publications in Philadelphia and around the country, Dorn has had the honor of capturing the images of hundreds of notable celebrities and politicians including President Barack Obama, George Bush Jr, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Maya Angelou, Jesse Jackson, Rihanna, Snoop Dog, Will Smith, and Tyler Perry. Photography has sent Dorn around the globe, inspiring his passion for civil activism. In 1995, Dorn assembled and led a group of forty-two men to the Million Man March. Together, they spent five days walking from Philadelphia to Washington DC. In his travels, Dorn observed a common theme amongst the youth of the world. Many of the children he encountered seemed lost. Understanding that opportunities for at-risk youth are minimal, Dorn was inspired to make a difference. Established by Dorn in 2011, InDaHouseMedia was built on the idea that there is room in the house for everyone. With InDaHouseMedia, Dorn’s mission is to provide the future generation with positive direction through sports, music, and photography.