News from the South - Louisiana News Feed
Trump administration to investigate Tulane for DEI policy, practices
Trump administration to investigate Tulane for DEI policy, practices
by Piper Hutchinson, Louisiana Illuminator
March 17, 2025
The U.S. Department of Education is launching investigations into Tulane University and 44 other colleges and universities as part of President Donald Trump’s backlash against diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) measures.
The investigation, which is being conducted by the department’s Office of Civil Rights, comes a month after the department sent a non-legally binding “dear colleagues” letter warning that schools could lose federal funding if they did not discontinue diversity, equity and inclusion practices and is part of the Trump administration’s larger backlash against DEI.
Tulane, a private university in New Orleans, is alleged to use “race-exclusionary practices in their graduate programs,” according to a media release from the U.S. Department of Education.
“We are aware of the announcement and prepared to respond to investigators and ensure we are complying with the law,” Tulane spokesman Mike Strecker said in a statement. “We’re committed to fostering a community where everyone can thrive, without bias for or against any groups.”
The release specifically cites Tulane’s affiliation with the “Ph.D. Project” as the cause of the investigation. The Ph.D. Project is a nonprofit organization that partners with universities and industry to support students from underrepresented backgrounds.
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Louisiana Illuminator is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Louisiana Illuminator maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Greg LaRose for questions: info@lailluminator.com.
The post Trump administration to investigate Tulane for DEI policy, practices appeared first on lailluminator.com
News from the South - Louisiana News Feed
Be prepared for severe storms later today
SUMMARY: Be prepared for severe storms later today, especially in San Antonio. Rain chances are low until after lunch but will rise by early afternoon with storms forming in the Hill Country. By late afternoon and evening, there’s about a 70% chance of rain, continuing through midnight. The storms are driven by fronts from the north, ample moisture, and upper-level energy, leading to potential strong to severe storms with gusty winds, hail, and localized flooding. Tornado risk is low but present. Tomorrow will be cooler with lingering clouds, dry conditions, and temperatures around 79°F. More storms are possible next week.

The best odds for rain will be between 7 and 10pm.
News from the South - Louisiana News Feed
Jury finds Hannah Landon guilty of murdering 6-year-old Bella Fontenelle
SUMMARY: Hannah Landon was found guilty of first-degree murder and two counts of obstruction of justice for the death of 6-year-old Bella Fontenelle. Bella’s body was discovered in a bucket outside her mother’s home two years ago. The jury deliberated for less than an hour before reaching the verdict. During the trial, defense arguments questioned Landon’s mental state at the time of the crime, while a state psychologist testified she knew right from wrong. The judge decided not to pursue the death penalty, and Landon faces life in prison with no parole. Sentencing is scheduled for May 7th.

Sentencing is set for Tuesday, May 6, at 9 a.m.
News from the South - Louisiana News Feed
Jury convicts woman of murder after six-year-old girl was found dead in a bucket
SUMMARY: A jury convicted Landon, the girlfriend of a six-year-old girl’s father, of first-degree murder after the child’s death. The girl, Bella Fontanel, was strangled, placed in a bucket, and left on her mother’s lawn. Despite an insanity plea, the jury found Landon guilty on all counts after less than an hour of deliberation, sentencing her to mandatory life without parole. Prosecutors described Landon as calculated and bitter, motivated by tensions with Bella’s father. Emotional testimonies and evidence showed premeditation. Landon remained silent during the trial. Sentencing is scheduled in five days in Jefferson Parish.

Jury convicts woman of murder after six-year-old girl was found dead in a bucket
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