SHREVEPORT – Dr. Kenna Franklin finds a way to help.
Whether it’s at LSU Shreveport, where she serves as the associate vice provost for community engagement, or in the community, Franklin leverages her vast expertise and knowledge to better those around her.
It’s why Franklin won the 2025 Aetna R.I.S.E. Trailblazing Award from R.I.S.E. Shreveport, a nonprofit organization designed to improve the health and holistic wellness of residents.
“I was really honored that I was nominated by one of my former students, and they are everywhere,” Franklin said. “It’s delightful to see former students that came out and support.
“I like what R.I.S.E. stands for and the mission it’s embarking on, so it’s an honor to be recognized by them.”
Those former students did show their support Sunday at R.I.S.E.’s awards brunch at Red River Social Kitchen and Bar.
Franklin is deeply involved with her students, whether they encountered her as an associate professor in sociology and social work classes or as a mentor with campus organizations like the Black Student Union.
“Education is not easy for all people,” Franklin said. “We have a large number of first-generation college students at LSUS, and sometimes it takes work to convince them that not only are they worthy of a college education but it’s a goal they can achieve.
“What makes me smile is honoring the opportunity we have each day to make education meaningful and impactful to students. What saddens me greatly is not being able to help a student realize the dream of a college education. You find talent is the rawest of forms and in the most elevated of forms.”
Franklin has molded countless students throughout the years, often saying “if you can’t see it, you can’t be it.”
She organizes events designed to paint that picture for the youth of Caddo and Bossier parishes, bringing them on campus to enjoy plays and spelling bees or experience other cultural and academic enrichment.
Franklin is one bridge between LSUS and the community, fostering engagement and exchange between the university and the region at large.
Her membership in organizations like The Links Incorporated, a longstanding nonprofit of African-American women in Shreveport, or Delta Theta Sigma Sorority Inc. fosters relationships that benefit LSUS and the community.
She partners with various groups throughout the region, particularly in the African-American, Hispanic and Asian communities.
“This type of engagement takes you to some unique places,” Franklin said. “You can’t be the person who just goes to work and comes home and be a community person.
“That’s why I say teamwork makes the dream work. We’re all on a team of making LSUS a better place which in turn makes Shreveport a better place.”
Franklin was one of three people honored at R.I.S.E. Shreveport brunch. One other honoree has LSUS ties in Derrick Parker, a basketball hall of famer who received the FIGHTER award for founding The Heartwork Foundation.
That foundation, which has existed for more than a decade, uses basketball to develop youth on and off the court.