Contact: Tara G. Cunningham
(o) 504-816-4024
(c) 504-422-0037
tcunningham@dillard.edu
NEW ORLEANS, LA — Dillard University proudly celebrated the achievements, resilience, and promise of the Class of 2026 during its Commencement Ceremony held Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Franklin Avenue Baptist Church. Although inclement weather necessitated relocating the ceremony from the historic Avenue of the Oaks, the spirit and significance of the occasion remained undiminished as graduates, families, alumni, faculty, and supporters gathered to honor one of life’s most meaningful milestones.
The ceremony celebrated not only the accomplishments of the graduating Class of 2026, but also recognized the Dillard University Class of 1976 “Golden Grads” commemorating their 50th reunion, and the Class of 2001 “Silver Grads” marking their 25th reunion.
The excitement and pride throughout the sanctuary were electric as graduates crossed the stage cheered on by family, friends, faculty, alumni, and supporters. Dillard University President Dr. Monique Guillory commended the graduates for their perseverance and determination throughout their academic journey.
“Like the mighty oaks that line our campus, you stood firm,” said Dr. Guillory. “That’s not just survival—it’s excellence born through trial. It’s what makes you Dillard strong. It’s in your DNA now. And wherever life takes you next, that same spirit will allow you to lead with grace under pressure.”
Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr., serving as the University’s 2026 Commencement Speaker, delivered a stirring and deeply personal address centered on the meaning, responsibility, and legacy attached to earning a Dillard degree. Throughout his remarks, Carter challenged graduates to embrace lives rooted in leadership, service, and collective progress.
“Dillard’s mission has always been clear: to shape students of character, compassion, and conviction,” Carter shared with graduates. “So today, your diploma does more than certify academic achievement. It signifies trust. Trust that you will use what you’ve gained not just for personal success, but for collective progress. And that brings me to the central question I want to leave with you today: What will you carry forward from this moment?”
In a heartfelt moment during his address, Congressman Carter also recognized his brother, Ted Carter, who was present celebrating his 50th Dillard class reunion as a member of the Golden Grads.
The University conferred honorary degrees upon Retired Lieutenant General Russell L. Honoré and Beverly Stanton McKenna, recognizing their extraordinary leadership, advocacy, and contributions to their communities.
A distinguished military leader and nationally respected voice on emergency preparedness and environmental resilience, Honoré dedicated more than three decades of service to the United States Army, ultimately achieving the rank of Lieutenant General. Widely recognized for his leadership of Joint Task Force Katrina following Hurricane Katrina, Honoré directed military relief operations across the Gulf Coast, helping restore order and coordinate critical emergency support during one of the nation’s most devastating disasters. In the years since, he has remained an influential advocate for disaster response preparedness, climate resilience, and infrastructure protection.
Beverly Stanton McKenna was recognized for her longstanding commitment to cultural preservation, journalism, and community leadership. A distinguished publisher and advocate whose work has elevated and preserved the history and contributions of Black communities in New Orleans and beyond, McKenna is the co-founder and publisher of The New Orleans Tribune, sustaining a vital platform for Black voices, civic engagement, and advocacy. She is also the co-founder of Le Musée de f.p.c. and the McKenna Museums, where her work in cultural preservation has ensured that historically underrepresented stories are collected, interpreted, and shared for generations to come.
The 2026 Commencement Ceremony reflected the enduring spirit of Dillard University — one grounded in excellence, perseverance, cultural legacy, and an unwavering commitment to preparing future leaders to impact their communities and the world.
As graduates crossed the stage surrounded by the support of loved ones and the broader Dillard community, the University celebrated not only academic achievement, but the promise of what lies ahead for a new generation of Bleu Devils.
