Dillard University Alumni Relations

Alumna Crystal Shana Bass, M.S. CIS ‘14, Dillard University’s Class of 2025 40 Under 40 Honoree

Crystal is an accomplished Information Technology Specialist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, recognized for leading innovations in network infrastructure and VoIP systems. Her expertise and leadership have earned multiple USDA awards, demonstrating her ability to deliver secure and efficient solutions impacting thousands. Beyond her career, Crystal is a devoted community leader, mentoring young women and serving through Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale, Empowerment Church, and organizations including Second Harvest Food Bank, Inspire NOLA, and the Autism Society of Greater New Orleans.

🎓 Support Crystal’s campaign to raise $2,000 for student scholarships and alumni initiatives: https://bit.ly/40Under40CBass14

Power. Presence. Purpose.

Alumna Jessica Forest ‘11, Dillard University’s Class of 2025 40 Under 40 Honoree

Jessica is a singer and corporate leader whose career embodies the power of versatility and resilience. From performing alongside global music icons to leading innovative solutions in logistics and supply chain management, she consistently demonstrates excellence and impact. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jessica actively serves her community through Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Hermann Park Rotary Club, empowering others and creating opportunities for growth. Her commitment to service, leadership, and artistic excellence reflects the values Dillard University instills in its alumni.

🎓 Support Jessica’s campaign to raise $2,000 for student scholarships and alumni initiatives: https://bit.ly/40Under40JForest11

Power. Presence. Purpose.

Alumna Sharde’ Jennings, M.A. ‘08, Dillard University’s Class of 2025 40 Under 40 Honoree

Sharde’ is a Consultant, Crisis Stabilizer, and Facilitator whose career reflects Dillard University’s mission of service, leadership, and excellence. With over 15 years advancing equitable long-term care for adults with developmental and physical complexities, Sharde’ has reshaped systems to be more inclusive, person-centered, and trauma-informed. She has trained hundreds of providers in trauma-informed care, crisis stabilization, and LGBTQ+ inclusion, and played a key role in Wisconsin’s first trauma-informed LGBTQ+ group home. A U.S. Army Reserve veteran, mentor, and advocate, Sharde’ empowers marginalized voices in policy and practice while blending creativity and art to uplift communities. Her work embodies the Dillard spirit of impact, innovation, and purpose.

🎓 Support Sharde’s campaign to raise $2,000 for student scholarships and alumni initiatives: https://bit.ly/40Under40SJennings08

Power. Presence. Purpose.

Alumna Lecia Fisher, MSN, RN ‘14, Dillard University’s Class of 2025 40 Under 40 Honoree

Lecia is Director of Surgical Services and a proud New Orleans native whose career exemplifies the values of Dillard University. This year, she completed a 16-month MSN program in just 8 months, was honored as Daisy Leader of the Year, and was inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success, all while successfully launching and leading a new Endoscopy service line. Her dedication to leadership, innovation, and service reflects her commitment to raising the bar in healthcare and giving back to her community. Lecia continues to lead with purpose, representing Dillard University with pride and inspiring future alumni to pursue excellence and impact.

🎓 Support Lecia’s campaign to raise $2,000 for student scholarships and alumni initiatives: https://bit.ly/40Under40LFisher14

Power. Presence. Purpose.

Alumna Lekisha Hall ‘09, Dillard University’s Class of 2025 40 Under 40 Honoree

Lekisha is a Special Education Teacher and lifelong advocate for equity in education whose career reflects the mission and values of Dillard University. With degrees in Elementary and Special Education, a master’s in Early Childhood Special Education, and currently pursuing her Doctorate in Education, she has dedicated over 13 years to transforming the lives of students, families, and communities through teaching, leadership, and service. Beyond the classroom, Lekisha actively serves with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., leading youth mentorship, voter engagement, and scholarship initiatives that uplift underserved populations. Her work exemplifies the Bleu Devil legacy, breaking barriers, building futures, and leading with purpose and passion.

🎓 Support Lekisha’s campaign to raise $2,000 for student scholarships and alumni initiatives: https://bit.ly/40Under40LHall09

Power. Presence. Purpose.

🎶I know you think it ain't my place
To say how I feel
But I'm gonna say it anyway
'Cause I gotta keep it real 🎶

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Alumna Chalon J. Lockett ‘09, Dillard University’s Class of 2025 40 Under 40 Honoree

Chalon is an educational consultant whose career reflects the values of scholarship, leadership, and service instilled by Dillard University. Passionate about education, she is committed to empowering students, guiding future leaders, and creating opportunities for community growth.Having been nominated for this recognition multiple times, Chalon views the honor not as a personal accolade, but as a platform to highlight the critical impact educators have in shaping communities. She aspires to return to Dillard in higher education, mentoring students and alumni, while continuing to expand her influence in fostering equitable and transformative learning environments.

🎓 Support Chalon’s campaign to raise $2,000 for student scholarships and alumni initiatives: https://bit.ly/40Under40CLockett09

Power. Presence. Purpose.

Alumna Shelby Lane Stewart ‘18, Dillard University’s Class of 2025 40 Under 40 Honoree

Shelby is Managing Editor whose career reflects Dillard University’s values of leadership, service, and community empowerment. She has created platforms that celebrate Black creativity and heritage, from curating Houston’s Hip-Hop Museum to ensuring diverse voices are represented at events like the Essence Festival of Culture. Beyond her professional work, Shelby actively mentors emerging Black journalists, helping them navigate the industry and access opportunities that were previously limited. Her efforts bridge journalism, culture, and community engagement, preserving legacies while inspiring the next generation of leaders. Recognition as a Top 40 Under 40 honoree honors her ongoing dedication to storytelling, mentorship, and cultural advocacy.

🎓 Support Shelby’s campaign to raise $2,000 for student scholarships and alumni initiatives: https://bit.ly/40Under40SStewart18

Power. Presence. Purpose.

Alumna Angelique M. Niare ‘09, Dillard University’s Class of 2025 40 Under 40 Honoree

Angelique is an educator, author, and advocate whose work reflects the legacy and values of Dillard University. As a proud Black woman, she embodies excellence, perseverance, and authenticity in every aspect of her life, using her platform to empower her community and inspire others, particularly women, to pursue leadership and personal growth. Guided by faith and purpose, Angelique demonstrates how Dillard graduates carry forward the mission of the university: to serve, uplift, and lead with integrity. Her dedication to education, advocacy, and mentorship makes her a model of the transformative power of a Dillard education.

🎓 Support Angelique’s campaign to raise $2,000 for student scholarships and alumni initiatives: https://bit.ly/40Under40ANiare09

Power. Presence. Purpose.

Alumnus Dr. Antonio Brown ‘08, Dillard University’s Class of 2025 40 Under 40 Honoree

Dr. Brown is an Assistant Principal in Houston ISD whose career reflects the scholarship, leadership, and service values of Dillard University. He has led initiatives that significantly improved student outcomes, including a 21% increase in STAAR Math performance and transforming Anderson Elementary from a D to an A campus by coaching teachers, refining instruction, and creating equitable systems. Beyond his professional impact, Dr. Brown actively serves in the Houston Area Alliance of Black School Educators, NASSP, the Urban League of Houston, and Dillard’s National Alumni Association, mentoring educators of color and advocating for equitable opportunities. His work bridges education and community service, uplifting students and families while carrying forward Dillard’s legacy of excellence.

🎓 Support Dr. Brown’s campaign to raise $2,000 for student scholarships and alumni initiatives: https://bit.ly/40Under40ABrown08

Power. Presence. Purpose.