NEW ORLEANS, LA – Dillard University is pleased to announce that Rev. Dr. Antoine J. Hutchins, D.Ed.Min., esteemed Senior Pastor of Christian Unity Baptist Church in Waldorf, Maryland, will serve as the keynote speaker for the University’s 2025 Baccalaureate Service. The service will be held as part of Dillard’s Commencement Weekend, celebrating the achievements of the graduating Class of 2025 on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 6:00pm at the Dillard University Lawless Memorial Chapel.
Rev. Dr. Hutchins is a dynamic leader, preacher, and psalmist whose ministry has touched lives across the nation. Under his leadership, Christian Unity Baptist Church has experienced remarkable growth, evolving from a small congregation to a thriving ministry of several hundred members. With a passion for preaching, church revitalization, and mission work, Dr. Hutchins has dedicated his life to equipping and inspiring individuals to live out their faith with purpose.
A graduate of the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University, Dr. Hutchins earned a Master of Divinity degree and later completed a Doctorate of Educational Ministry from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary at Boyce College in 2019. In addition to his pastoral leadership, he is an accomplished gospel artist, leading the Christian Unity Choir to national recognition with multiple Independent Gospel Artists Alliance Gospel Blue M.I.C. Achievement Awards.
Dr. Monique Guillory, President of Dillard University, expressed her enthusiasm and gratitude for Rev. Dr. Hutchins accepting the invitation to speak. “We are honored to welcome Rev. Dr. Antoine Hutchins to Dillard University for this significant occasion. His commitment to faith, education, and service aligns beautifully with Dillard’s mission of cultivating leaders who serve their communities with purpose. We are excited for him to impart wisdom and inspiration to our graduates as they embark on their next journey.”
The Baccalaureate Service is a cherished tradition at Dillard University, offering graduating
seniors and their families an opportunity for reflection, spiritual encouragement, and celebration
before Commencement. Rev. Dr. Hutchins’ message is expected to resonate deeply with the
Class of 2025 as they prepare to transition into their professional and personal endeavors.
For more information about the 2025 Baccalaureate Service and Commencement Weekend,
please visit www.dillard.edu.
