Beyond the Oaks

Dillard University Mourns the Passing of Former President, Dr. Marvalene Hughes

The Dillard University community mourns the passing of Dr. Marvalene Hughes, the sixth and first woman to serve as president of Dillard University, who passed away on January 3, 2025.

Dr. Hughes began her tenure at Dillard University on July 1, 2005, bringing with her a distinguished record of leadership in higher education. A two-time alumna of Tuskegee University, she was also the first African American to earn a PhD in counseling and administration from Florida State University. Her academic preparation, coupled with a deep commitment to student development and institutional excellence, defined a career dedicated to service and transformation.

Barely one month into her presidency at Dillard, Dr. Hughes was confronted with the unprecedented challenge of Hurricane Katrina. As the storm approached and a mandatory evacuation was ordered, she acted decisively to ensure student safety, arranging transportation to Shreveport. In the months that followed, she negotiated an agreement with the Hilton New Orleans Riverside that allowed the University to continue instruction and operations while recovery efforts were underway on campus.

With unwavering determination, Dr. Hughes led the rebuilding of Dillard’s historic 55-acre campus, which sustained more than $400 million in physical damage and business interruption losses. In her first year as president—and again in 2006—the University raised more than $34 million in public and private gifts and grants, far exceeding any previous annual fundraising totals in Dillard’s history.

In 2007, Dillard implemented a comprehensive strategic plan to accelerate recovery and guide the University’s future. The following year, the University launched its first capital campaign, Advantage Dillard!, with a $70 million goal focused on six priority areas, including student scholarships, academic excellence, campus facilities, technology, library enhancement, program support, and endowment growth. More than $60 million was raised through this historic campaign.

Following commencement exercises for the Class of 2010, Dr. Hughes presided over the opening of two major new facilities: the Professional Schools and Sciences Building and the Student Union and Health and Wellness Center. Both LEED®-registered buildings reflected Dillard’s growing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

In the summer of 2010, Dr. Hughes announced a major academic restructuring under a new four-college system designed to strengthen academic pathways, improve graduation rates, and position the University for future growth. This structure included the College of General Studies, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Professional Studies, and the College of Business.

“Dr. Marvalene Hughes was a courageous and visionary leader whose presidency will forever be linked to one of the most challenging and transformative periods in Dillard University’s history,” said Dr. Monique Guillory, President of Dillard University. “Her decisive leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to our students and mission ensured that Dillard not only survived, but emerged stronger. We honor her extraordinary legacy and extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.”

Dr. Hughes concluded her service as president in June 2011. Her legacy at Dillard University stands as a testament to steadfast leadership, institutional renewal, and an enduring commitment to higher education.

Prior to joining Dillard, Dr. Hughes held senior administrative roles at Florida Presbyterian College (now Eckerd College), the University of Minnesota, the University of Toledo, Arizona State University, and San Diego State University. She later served as president of California State University, Stanislaus, where her leadership resulted in increased enrollment, expanded fundraising and capital construction efforts, and notable gains in national rankings.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, alumni, and all who were touched by her life and work.

Arrangements will be shared at a later date.