Education Note: Dillard University
Institutional Overview
Dillard University, located at 2601 Gentilly Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70122, is a private historically Black liberal arts university founded in 1930 through the merger of Straight College (1869) and New Orleans University (1873). Current enrollment stands at approximately 1,215 students, with a gender distribution of 22% male and 78% female students. As Louisiana's oldest HBCU, Dillard maintains a 12:1 student-faculty ratio with 59.2% of classes having fewer than 20 students. The student population is predominantly Black (86.6%), reflecting the institution's historic mission of providing quality education to underserved communities.
Risk Score
Risk Score Analysis Risk Score = (Annual Debt: $31,000 / Expected Salary: $35,400) × (1 - Graduation Rate: 48%) = 0.88 × 0.52 = 0.46
This concerning risk score reflects significant challenges in student outcomes and financial return on investment. The debt-to-income ratio of 0.88 indicates graduates may struggle with loan repayment relative to earnings potential. The 48% graduation rate results in a risk multiplier of 0.52, suggesting substantial challenges with student retention and completion. However, recent improvements in graduation rates show positive momentum.
Strengths
Dillard demonstrates distinctive strengths through its historic mission and specialized academic programs, particularly in biology (ranked ninth nationally) and film studies (ranked thirteenth). The institution's affordable tuition ($22,594) combined with strong financial aid support (99% of students receive aid) maintains accessibility for its target population. Student reviews consistently praise the supportive academic environment and close faculty relationships fostered by the 12:1 student-faculty ratio. The university's location in New Orleans provides unique cultural and professional opportunities. Recent rankings, including #153 among National Liberal Arts Colleges by U.S. News & World Report and placement as the 11th best HBCU nationally, validate the institution's academic quality.
Weaknesses
Dillard faces challenges with its 48% graduation rate, though this represents improvement from previous years. Student reviews highlight concerns about administrative efficiency and campus infrastructure maintenance. Limited financial resources constrain the university's ability to invest in facilities and academic programs. The institution's high acceptance rate (80%) raises questions about admission standards and student preparation. Student feedback consistently mentions issues with housing conditions and administrative processes. The heavy reliance on financial aid (99% of students receive aid) creates potential vulnerability to changes in federal and state funding.
Bottom Line for Board of Directors
Dillard University's risk score of 0.46 and improving graduation rate of 48% indicate a mixed picture requiring continued strategic attention. While the institution maintains important strengths in its historic mission and specialized academic programs, significant operational challenges remain. The board should prioritize three key areas: improving student retention through enhanced support services, addressing infrastructure needs, and developing sustainable funding models less dependent on financial aid. Recent recognition as the 11th best HBCU nationally provides momentum for improvement, but substantial investments in facilities and student services are needed. The institution's location in New Orleans and strong academic programs in biology and film studies provide foundation for growth, but require additional resource investment to fully leverage these advantages. Strategic focus on improving operational efficiency while maintaining accessibility and academic quality will be crucial for long-term sustainability.