As the holiday season invites us to pause and reflect, I am filled with deep gratitude for the Dillard University community and the many meaningful moments we have shared this year.
As I near the completion of my first year as President of Dillard University, I am reminded daily that this institution is defined not only by its legacy, but by its people. Over the past year, I have had the profound privilege of building relationships and sharing transformative experiences with our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and supporters—each moment affirming the strength and spirit of this remarkable university.
From the solemn jazz funeral honoring the lives of the 19 individuals whose remains were repatriated from Leipzig, Germany, to the joy and pride of our Investiture and Homecoming celebrations, this year has been rich with moments that underscore the depth of Dillard’s history and the promise of its future. This was particularly poignant as we reflected on the legacy of our namesake, James Hardy Dillard, and his grandson, David Dillard, a former trustee and generous benefactor who passed away this year. The brilliance and miracle that is Dillard University has been driven by several generations of this remarkable family and we are proud to share with them this heritage of faith, strength, and excellence.
I also extend heartfelt appreciation to the MacKenzie Scott foundation for their unwavering support of Dillard University and historically Black colleges and universities across the nation. Ms. Scott’s unprecedented generosity inspires us all through its transformative impact across hundreds of institutions and countless lives. We are grateful for this momentous gift that affirms our mission and advances the realization of our strategic priorities which will be delineated in our updated Strategic Plan – Dillard Now – which will be circulated in the spring.
One of the most meaningful experiences of this year was visiting Dr. Stella Lucile Pecot Robinson, one of our oldest alumni, during my travels prior to her recent passing. Her life and legacy are a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of a Dillard education and the generations of excellence that came before us.
I am humbled and honored to serve as President of Dillard University. It is my dream to carry forward the torch lit by those who preceded me while blazing new trails that will strengthen and sustain this illustrious institution for generations to come. On behalf of the university, I wish you and your family a joyous holiday season filled with peace, reflection, and hope—and a very happy and prosperous New Year.
With gratitude and warmest regards,
Monique Guillory, Ph.D.
President, Dillard University
