Dillard University notable alumni have left indelible marks in business, civil rights, science, sports, and the arts, inspiring generations of students and job seekers considering this historic HBCU in New Orleans. From entrepreneur Pinky Cole, who built the popular Slutty Vegan chain after graduating in 2005, to civil rights pioneer Rudy Lombard, a 1952 math graduate who worked at NASA and led desegregation efforts, these famous graduates of Dillard University showcase resilience and excellence. The university, founded in 1869, boasts an endowment of approximately $127 million, supports diverse student body (over 95% Black or African American), and holds strong rankings like #35 in Regional Colleges South by U.S. News. Alumni like chemist Luna Mishoe, the first Black woman to earn a PhD in chemistry from Kansas State University (class of 1968), highlight breakthroughs. Sports standouts include NFL players Justin Hardee (2015) and Lawrence Jackson (2008). Explore higher ed jobs near Dillard University to connect with this influential network, or check academic jobs in New Orleans, Louisiana, and across the United States. Whether you're a student, faculty member, or job seeker, Dillard's legacies motivate career growth amid the vibrant culture of New Orleans.
notable alumni from Dillard University span entrepreneurship, activism, science, and professional sports, reflecting the institution's commitment to empowering Black excellence since its merger in 1930. Unique aspects include its recovery from Hurricane Katrina, reopening fully in 2009, and strong emphasis on liberal arts amid New Orleans' jazz heritage. These famous graduates of Dillard University influence global conversations, from business innovations to civil rights. Job seekers can leverage this network via higher ed career advice on AcademicJobs.com, while students explore academic jobs in Louisiana.
Dillard University celebrities and influential leaders include no Nobel winners or billionaires but shine in key areas.
Built a vegan fast-food empire valued at millions, expanding to multiple locations and authoring a cookbook.
Led lunch counter sit-ins in 1960s New Orleans and contributed to space program calculations.
Pioneered in organic chemistry research and education at Delaware State University.
Authored works on Black Louisiana history, preserving Creole culture through poetry.
Special teams ace with Pro Bowl honors, known for hustle plays.
Played for Seahawks and Lions, recording multiple sacks in career.
Broke barriers in accounting, founding her own firm.
Wrote "Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome," influencing trauma studies.
Appeared on Days of Our Lives and other TV shows.
Trombonist who performed with New Orleans greats.
Defensive back in Arena League and NFL Europe.
Served as dean and advanced HBCU leadership.
Pinky Cole's journey from Dillard to vegan mogul inspires budding entrepreneurs, often sharing how campus activism shaped her brand. Rudy Lombard's NASA work alongside civil rights battles exemplifies Dillard University influential leaders' dual commitments. Read real student reviews on Rate My Professor at Dillard University to see how these stories motivate current classes.
Dillard University's $127 million endowment funds scholarships amid #35 U.S. News Regional Colleges South ranking. As a top HBCU, it excels in diversity with focused STEM and arts programs. Sports teams in NAIA's Gulf Coast Athletic Conference compete fiercely in basketball and track. Cultural depictions highlight its role in New Orleans' post-Katrina revival. Faculty and job seekers benefit from professor salaries insights on AcademicJobs.com.
| Alumnus | Field | Key Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Pinky Cole | Business | Vegan chain expansion, cookbook |
| Rudy Lombard | Activism/Science | Desegregation, NASA contributions |
| Luna Mishoe | Science | Pioneering PhD, education leadership |
These ratings reflect researched impacts of Dillard University famous graduates, inspiring students and faculty pursuing research jobs.
High business and legacy scores from figures like Pinky Cole motivate Dillard students; pair with Rate My Professor reviews for faculty insights.
The endowment supports networking events, yielding career benefits like alumni mentorship. Costs include tuition around $22,000 annually, offset by aid. Access scholarships and faculty jobs via AcademicJobs.com.
With 95% Black students, Dillard fosters diversity in leadership and arts. Sports achievements include conference titles, tying into New Orleans culture. Alumni legacies appear in media on HBCU resilience.
Many students discuss how alumni legacies like Pinky Cole's entrepreneurial rise motivate their careers at Dillard University; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Feedback highlights inspiration from civil rights stories during campus events. Job seekers note networking boosts post-graduation.
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