Contact: Tara G. Cunningham
(o) 504-816-4024
(c) 504-422-0037
tcunningham@dillard.edu
New Orleans, LA — Dillard University proudly announces that Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. will serve as the keynote speaker for its 2026 Commencement Ceremony, celebrating the achievements of the graduating Class of 2026.
Congressman Carter, now serving his third term in the U.S. House of Representatives, represents Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District, which includes New Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, Lafourche, and the River Parishes. A respected leader on Capitol Hill, he serves on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, the House Homeland Security Committee, and the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. He also holds a leadership role as Deputy Whip and was elected 1st Vice Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus.
“Dillard University is honored to welcome Congressman Carter back to campus to address our graduates,” said Dr. Monique Guillory, President of Dillard University. “As a distinguished public servant, accomplished leader, and proud graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana, Congressman Carter embodies the commitment to service, excellence, and community that we strive to instill in our students. We are excited for him to inspire and challenge the Class of 2026 as they prepare to make their mark on the world.”
A native son of New Orleans, Congressman Carter’s career in public service spans decades. He began as an Executive Assistant to then-Mayor Sidney Barthelemy before making history as the first African American elected to represent Louisiana’s 102nd District in the Louisiana House of Representatives. He later became the first African American to represent District C on the New Orleans City Council and went on to serve as Louisiana State Senator for the 7th District, where he held the role of Senate Minority Leader.
Throughout his legislative career, Congressman Carter has authored and co-authored hundreds of laws focused on infrastructure, economic development, women’s healthcare, criminal justice reform, and homelessness. He is widely recognized as a steadfast advocate for civil rights, healthcare access, equality, and environmental justice.
A graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana, Congressman Carter earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Business Administration and later graduated summa cum laude with a Master of Science in Business from the University of Holy Cross. He has also received honorary Doctorate Degrees of Humane Letters from Xavier University and Southern University of New Orleans.
In addition to his work in Congress, Congressman Carter serves as an adjunct professor of political science at Xavier University and is the founder and host of “What Makes America Tick”, a platform featuring conversations with leaders and changemakers shaping the nation. He is also a published writer, with commentary featured in national outlets including The Hill, Essence Magazine, and The New Orleans Tribune.
Dillard University’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony, held on Saturday, May 9, 2026 on the historic Avenue of Oaks, will celebrate the accomplishments, resilience, and future promise of its graduating seniors, marking a significant milestone in their academic and personal journeys.
