Ruston, LA – September 16, 2025 — The School of Human Ecology and the Education and
Research in Children’s Health (ENRICH) Center at Louisiana Tech University are proud to
present the Bruce Everist Community Event, an evening dedicated to fostering connection,
awareness, and support for children and families in our region.
This free event will take place on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the Lincoln Parish Library in
Ruston, Louisiana. It will feature a Community Resource Fair, the world-premiere screening of
the documentary film Belonging, and an expert interview with special guest Dr. Amanda Harrist,
Emeritus Professor of Human Development and Family Science at Oklahoma State University.
Event Schedule:
4:30–5:30 PM – Community Resource Fair
5:30–6:30 PM – Film Screening: Belonging
6:30–7:15 PM – Interview with Dr. Amanda Harrist
The documentary Belonging explores how educators and communities have the power to
transform more than just children’s learning outcomes. Belonging is not just a feel-good concept.
It fuels learning and shapes physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Dr. Harrist, who
helped produce the film, will offer insights during an interview following the screening.
“Decades of research show that rejection and exclusion change how children’s brains learn, and,
in turn, how social acceptance can transform children’s outcomes,” said Dr. Julie Rutledge,
Director of the ENRICH Center. “I hope this world premier film screening of Belonging and
interview with featured researcher, Dr. Harrist, sparks meaningful conversations about how we
can build belonging for Louisiana children.”
“This event is about strengthening our community,” said Dr. Matthew Thornton, Director of the
School of Human Ecology. “We’re excited to bring together local organizations, families, and
professionals to share resources and engage in meaningful dialogue about how we can better
support children in our community.”
The Community Resource Fair will feature local agencies and organizations offering services
and support for children and families. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with
providers, learn about available resources, and build relationships that promote community well-
being.
The event is free and open to the public, thanks to funding from the Bruce Everist Lecture Series.
Certificates of attendance for Continuing Education Credits will be available upon request.
Organizations interested in participating in the Resource Fair are encouraged to RSVP by
October 2, 2025, to reserve a table and receive additional event details.
The School of Human Ecology at Louisiana Tech University explores the art and science of
living well. As one of the primary research centers for the school, the ENRICH Center is
dedicated to being a catalyst for improvement in health outcomes for children.
For more information, please contact the ENRICH Center at ENRICH@latech.edu.
