By Lillian E. Small (First in a Series)
Plans to celebrate 100 years of service as an iconic educational site have been accelerating for the past two months. The steering committee is reaching out to the community, alumni, friends, and citizens throughout the county, to count yourselves among the celebrants of this event slated for April 25-28,2024. You are cordially invited to join this history-making event that promises to be a rewarding experience.
The Steering Committee has outlined this four-day celebration of events to highlight and pay due respect and tribute to the fine heritage that the Dillard communities represent. We all agree that it takes more than longevity to deserve the respect that Dillard demands, as we note that through her walls have passed the grassroots and pioneers of this community; that we share a worldwide community of learners who have made their marks and brought a special brand of honor to our doorsteps.
Many longtime residents are boastful that they now have generations of their families who attended and/or still attend Dillard. It is a pride that hinges on deity worship as each to the other smiles with the words “We fling thy standards on the air – Dillard High my Dillard High.” It would be far from the truth not to say that longevity has nothing to do with the prominence we possess. Indeed, it is our survival that makes this edifice a monument. Yes, there were lean years but the struggles were worth it as we think of the strides and accomplishments that were made for a quality education.
Several venues will accommodate the different events being planned with the first to be held at the Old Dillard Museum. The spirit and tone of this celebration will be set, and rightfully so, at the place where it all began. Memorabilia, artifacts, and art, together with a Center Court entertainment program, and tour of the museum, will keep celebrants mesmerized in nostalgia. Alumni, friends, and citizens are welcome and urged to help make this event yours by allowing us to display some of your artifacts. A full Calendar of Events will follow in the last article of this series.