06/17/2026
The Dillard University National Alumni Association (DUNAA) joins the Williams family, friends, colleagues, and the greater Dillard University community in mourning the passing of our esteemed 30th National President, Joshua Williams, Jr.
A proud member of the Class of 1991, Joshua was a devoted alumnus, visionary leader, mentor, and faithful servant whose commitment to Dillard University and its alumni community spanned decades. As the 30th National President of DUNAA and a past President of the Greater New Orleans Chapter, Joshua dedicated his time, talents, and energy to strengthening alumni engagement, advancing the mission of Dillard University, and fostering a spirit of service throughout our alumni family.
Joshua's leadership was distinguished by his unwavering commitment to the development and empowerment of young people. He believed deeply in the transformative power of education, mentorship, and community engagement. Through the creation of his nonprofit organization and his tireless advocacy on behalf of youth, he created pathways of opportunity and inspired countless young people to pursue lives of purpose, achievement, and service. His work reflected a steadfast belief that every young person deserved encouragement, support, and access to opportunities that would help them realize their full potential.
Among his many accomplishments as National President, Joshua championed initiatives that strengthened the connection between alumni and the University while directly benefiting students. Under his leadership, DUNAA increased alumni participation and contributions during Giving Tuesday campaigns, reinforcing a culture of philanthropy and alumni engagement. He also launched the alumni-supported campaign that made print and copy services in the University library available to students free of charge, helping to remove barriers to academic success. Recognizing the importance of alumni fellowship and institutional pride, Joshua expanded DUNAA's participation in the annual Homecoming celebration, creating greater opportunities for alumni to reconnect with one another and engage with the University community.
A gifted mentor and community advocate, Joshua invested in the lives of students, emerging leaders, and young professionals. He understood that true leadership is measured not by titles held, but by lives impacted. His influence will continue to be felt through the many individuals he inspired, guided, and empowered throughout his lifetime.
Joshua also shared a special and enduring relationship with the late Harold and Rhea Lucien, tremendous philanthropists to Dillard University and lifetime members of DUNAA, whose guidance, encouragement, and support were meaningful throughout his journey. The Luciens had no children, and Joshua was the son they never had, a bond that reflected deep love, mutual respect, and lifelong commitment to one another.
As we honor Joshua's life and legacy, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, especially his three children, Joshua III, Jada, and, Jasmine, and his grandchild, who were among his greatest sources of pride, joy, and inspiration. We pray that they find comfort in the lasting legacy of love, leadership, and service that their father and grandfather leaves behind. We also offer our heartfelt sympathy to his extended family, friends, colleagues, fellow alumni, and all whose lives were enriched by his wisdom, compassion, and generosity.
Joshua leaves an enduring legacy of leadership, advocacy, mentorship, and unwavering devotion to Dillard University. While we grieve his passing, we celebrate a life dedicated to uplifting others and strengthening the communities he served. His impact will continue to resonate through the students he mentored, the alumni he united, the youth he championed, and the countless lives he touched. May his memory forever be a blessing, and may his example continue to inspire future generations of Dillard University alumni, students, and leaders.
