My HBCU Story

I must start off my story by stating that at an early age my mother embedded the importance of a college education into my sister and I – we knew without a shadow of doubt we’d attend college and finish. It wasn’t until my senior year that I met Dr. Tyrone Singleton, one of my former high school teachers, who happened to be a Dillard University graduate, member of my home chapter, Epsilon Alpha of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc and a New Orleans native. 

The rise of Jim Crow proved to be a significant challenge for New Orleans University and Straight College because of the difficulties African American college graduates had finding professional career opportunities. In New Orleans, African Americans were often forced into domestic and menial labor.

James H. Dillard, (Founder) was driven by his determination to close racial barriers in education even though his parents had been slave owners. After emancipation, Dillard was dissatisfied with the treatment of former enslaved people which thrust him into becoming known as one of the best known and most active proponents of improved educational opportunities for African Americans in the South.

Encouraged by Mr. Dillard’s determination in the face of adversity - I started college in 2010 – five years after the catastrophic Hurricane Katrina, which sought to erase Dillard’s and New Orleans’ history.

Some of the best memories and long-lasting friendships were made during those four years.  I am forever indebted to the Crescent City. 

I have so many fond memories, but one is attending the “Bleu Devil Classic,”which is an annual competitive basketball game between Dillard University and Xavier University.. Xavier was our rival, another HBCU (Catholic). The “Bleu Devil Classic” is a staple in Southern HBCU sports culture. Not only did it draw students attending these schools and the New Orleans community, but it is also attended by populations from other HBCUS and the like.. I can remember us shouting loudly in the stands “D.U. Get Fired Up” while rhythmically stomping on the bleachers. The sense of pride was ecstatic.

I remember then Former United States Attorney General Eric Holder visiting Dillard’s campus in 2012 - during the Obama Administration. He was the nation's first black attorney general. I was amazed that #mydu afforded me the opportunity to meet such a noble man.  It was another confirmation that I had chosen the right school. The visit made the national news.

Kearny Hall was certainly a central spot to gather, but “Kabacoff” was the spot. No matter a student’s major or classification, this is where the commuters and out-of-towners pooled together. It was so exciting to see the various student organizations and the Divine Nine on the yard, especially during in-take season. I scheduled my classes and work-study so that I would have Thursday and Friday noon as an off period because it was always a show to watch. Black sororities and fraternities were very engaged in community affairs, such as community service, educational and social justice, not just parties. I later pledged the Epsilon Alpha Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, INC in 2012.

Some other campus activities centered around Homecoming, Mardi Gras and Spring Fests. I believe in 2011 or ‘12, The Migos, Yo Gotti ,and Wale performed on campus at our Spring Fest. I was on the entertainment committee and was designated to be their student guide. Wale would be one of many artists I would meet and work with for years to come. That experience at Dillard set the trajectory of my professional career with entertainers.

As a kid, I was always involved in my school’s activities. I attended school, sang in the school’s gospel choir and was in every school talent show. So, in 2014 it was no surprise that I would sign up for Dillard’s Fake the Funk talent show. I gathered a group of Houston natives at D.U. and performed a well-choreographed routine to the late rapper - Notorious B.I.G., hit song “Big Poppa.” In a faux mink coat, heavy chains, and dark shades, I looked like the real Biggie-Smalls. We killed it; folks went crazy and they raved about our performance for the rest of semester for getting the place so hyped.

Dillard was not just about fun. It was about preparing young black men and women for the world. The Political Science Department introduced me to students that shared my same interest in politics. I participated in Phi Alpha Delta, a political science club. I co-created a short video invitation for former first lady of the United States, Michelle Obama as my graduating classes’ commencement speaker. This type of exposure led me to volunteer with the Democratic Party and later work on dozens of political campaigns. This put me in some of the most influential circles. In fact, my studies at Dillard landed me several collegiate internships with the City of New Orleans, Dept of Homeland Security and Corporation for National and Community Service, just to name a few.

I could go on and on about my undergraduate experience. I appreciated a HBCU so much, I attended the University of the District of Columbia, an HBCU Graduate School, in the nation’s capital to further my education. They both prepared me to live ethically, think and communicate precisely, and act courageously to make the world a better place. And I continue to give back either financially or my time to both to this day. I have a wonderful life because of the foundation set by my HBCU experience. I live with no educational regrets!

I am a proud graduate of Dillard University and the University of the District of Columbia and a great nephew of Elton and Ruby Deanes. The mission of the Elton and Ruby Deanes Pencil Fund is to help reduce student loan debt for students attending HBCUs. 

Will you help us by donating $50 today?