Teaching Fellow Coaches New Tulane Scholars

Phil Hofius, a recent transplant to New Orleans, became a Posse writing coach because he wanted to be part of the vibrant volunteer community that is helping to transform the city. As a teachNOLA Fellow, Phil is strongly invested in the academic success of the young people of New Orleans as he trains toward a teaching certification. He first learned about Posse while volunteering with the Edible Schoolyard, an organization that involves students and schools in growing, harvesting, preparing and enjoying food together.  

“The other volunteers talked about the great work Posse was doing in the community,” Phil says. “Also, some of my friends went to colleges that had Posse Scholars and they were able to tell me a little bit more about the program. I wanted to be involved in the work that Posse is doing here in New Orleans.”

In January, Phil began as a writing coach for the newest class of Posse New Orleans Scholars selected to attend Tulane University in the fall. He co-taught a series of writing workshops over three months, helping Scholars bridge the gap between high school-level writing and college-level writing before they matriculate on campus.

“I love working with the Scholars on their writing,” says Phil. “The program gives them more insight into the writing process and what an engaged, college classroom environment is like. Everyone is thinking differently about their writing now.”

“Phil was always willing to put time in his schedule for us and we really appreciate that,” says Scholar Peter Nguyen.

The Posse Foundation’s writing program is critical to Scholars’ academic success. We are so thankful to Phil and to all our dedicated volunteers who make this important program component possible.

To learn more about volunteering with the writing program, contact Simon Jeffrey at [email protected] or (504) 208-5595.