The late Dr. Tylithia L. Burks was an avid learner and science lover. Dr. Tylithia graduated from Xavier University as a proud graduate in 2004, receiving her bachelor’s degree in Biology. Throughout her matriculation, Dr. Tylithia participated in numerous extracurricular activities on campus such as, Xavier Activities Board (XAB), Miss Junior for the Class of 2004, and became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.,  Epsilon Tau Chapter.  

 She continued her education by receiving a Master of Science in Biology in 2006 and Doctor of Pharmacy in 2010 from Texas Southern University. 

 She participated in Give Love Xavier Days and spoke often of establishing scholarships at both of her HBCU alma maters. Xavier University of Louisiana held a special place in heart. It had a special impact and fostered intellectual and emotional growth during her undergraduate years.  

She wanted to give back to the institution that had given her so much, including fond memories and an educational foundation for her career as a licensed Nuclear Pharmacist in the Houston area for greater than 10 years. She was an example of Saint Katherine Drexel’s vision for an XULA graduate to assume a role of leadership and service in her community and to contribute to a more just and humane society. 

 She had an effervescent spirit with a strong faith in God. She touched many people with her generosity and passion for life.Throughout her 38 years of life and in death, she has been purposeful in investing her time and resources through her service to the community and gift giving to many organizations including Xavier and the K.O.V.E.N.A.N.T Foundation.  She would say “Be a blessing to someone, because you do not know how much they need it”. 

 She was eager to live her life to the fullest with compassion and generosity to match. In that same spirit, an endowed scholarship is established to celebrate her legacy, honor her wishes, and serve as gratitude to Xavier University of Louisiana. 

 The Dr. Tylithia L. Burks Foundation was founded in 2021 to preserve the philanthropic legacy of Dr. Tylithia L. Burks. Through the Foundation and her endowed scholarships for education, her spirit of giving and drive to have an impact on others will live on.