Tulane Scholar Joins New Orleans Pelicans Dance Team, Focuses on Medicine

Y’vonne Antoine is a junior at Tulane University majoring in communications on the pre-med track. A long-time dancer, the Posse Scholar recently earned a spot on the New Orleans Pelicans Hype Team, an entertainment squad made up of dancers, breakers, and tumblers.

Y’vonne says her role supporting the NBA Pelicans at basketball games fulfills a lifelong dream.

“Growing up, my family and I had season tickets,” Y’Vonne says. “We frequented the games and—although basketball is very entertaining—my attention was always on the dancers. Supporting a team that I love while doing something I love is a perfect combination for me.”

“Having this supportive and inclusive community will help me grow as a person, dancer, peer, and leader.”

On campus, Y’vonne is also vice president of the Omicron Psi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority and vice president of tours for Green Wave Ambassadors. She is an undergraduate admissions intern and diversity fellow and serves as the fundraising chair for the Minority Association for Pre-Medical Scholars. Off campus, she is also the head coach and choreographer for Haynes Academy Jackettes Dance Team and is a teen engagement volunteer for Geaux Girl Magazine.

Y’vonne knows the Pelicans Hype Team role will connect her to the New Orleans community, helping her build skills like public speaking and time management.

“I believe that this experience will prepare me for all aspects of life,” Y’vonne says. “Overall having this supportive and inclusive community will help me grow as a person, dancer, peer, and leader.”

After her undergraduate studies, Y’vonne plans to attend medical school in hopes of becoming an internal medicine hospitalist.