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Traditions

Traditions are the glue of an institution's identity and culture. Here are a few DU traditions that help make "Fair Dillard" the special place that it is.

FOUNDERS' DAY CONVOCATION

Every fall, Dillard celebrates its founding going back to the beginnings of Straight University and New Orleans University. The campus gathers in Lawless Memorial Chapel to reflect on the University's heritage with the help of alumnus serving as keynote speaker. Pictured right is Dillard alumnus and New Orleans City Councilmember Jay Banks '82 from the 2020 Founders' Day Convocation.

CORONATION OF MR. AND MISS DILLARD

Mr. and Miss Dillard are honored in an ornate affair celebrating their official crowning. Also presented to the Dillard community are the royal court, Student Government Association representatives and other student leaders. Pictured below is the 2019-2020 royal court.

HONORS CONVOCATION

We proudly inspire our students to engage in critical thought as a way of buidling intellectual capital. Every spring, the University celebrates students' academic achievements by putting them center stage for the University community to see. Pictured below is a 2019 honoree, Jermany Gray '21.

DON'T WALK ON THE OAKS!

Fall and spring days in New Orleans can be nothing short of glorious which makes the lush Avenue of the Oaks a temptation for any student who wants to throw a blanket out to enjoy their favorite po-boy or a couple of pounds of crawfish.

That is sure to be interrupted by a seasoned DU student or an alumnus who will admonish, "You do NOT walk, let alone hold a picnic, on these Oaks!"

Why not???

At Dillard, the privilege of walking on the Oaks is reserved for Bleu Devils who are saying "Fair Thee Well" to Dillard during their commencement ceremony. Plus, one of our distinguishing characteristics is the beauty of our green space, so much so that Cosmopolitan ranked Dillard as one of the "50 Most Beautiful College Campuses" in 2020. 

HOLD HANDS

Students and alumni don't just sing "Fair Dillard," they do so with the pride and purpose that Dillard has helped them develop. On the final stanza, the Bleu Devils grab hands and hold them high (as seen below).

"FAIR THEE WELL"

Like every other institution of higher learning, the journey at Dillard is filled with peaks and valleys. But, that goes away at Commencement when the graduates are serenaded with the spiritual "Fair Thee Well." As the song says, "If I never, ever see you anymore, fair thee well."