Dillard University hosted a special benefit concert to honor Dr. S. Carver Davenport for his remarkable 48-year tenure as the choral director of the Dillard University Concert Choir. Dr. Davenport, known as the longest-tenured HBCU Choral Director and holding the prestigious Ray Charles Endowed Professorship in Music, has had a profound impact on the musical landscape of the institution.
The event included moving tributes to Dr. Davenport, with President Dr. Rochelle L. Ford recognizing him as a “living legend” and Executive Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Stephanie Rogers, highlighting his unwavering passion and commitment to shaping the lives of countless students over the years.
The concert featured esteemed special guest soloists, such as Valerie Jones Francis ’83, Dr. Jolisa Singletary ’06, and Dr. Mona Lisa Saloy, the 2021-2023 Louisiana Poet Laureate. The evening showcased captivating performances by the choir, including renditions of spirituals like “Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel” and a stunning duet of “The Prayer” by Lauren Rhodes-Charles ’22 and David Rhodes ’22, which received a standing ovation.
The concert brought together more than 60 alumni, including Trustee Member Roland Pickens ‘85, who joined the current choir members in a powerful performance of songs like ‘Total Praise’ and ‘His Light Still Shines,’ creating a truly uplifting and memorable experience.
The event included a presentation of honors, including a proclamation from U.S. Congressman Troy Carter, a plaque from the Office of Institutional Advancement, and flowers from the current choir members, recognizing Dr. Davenport’s outstanding contributions to music and education. The concert ended with a heartfelt rendition of Dr. Davenport’s composition, “Fare Ye Well,”
View photos from the event here >>
More than $22,000 was successfully raised to support the Dillard University Concert Choir.
The Dillard University Concert Choir will perform at:
- March 16, 2024, at 3 p.m.| Centenary College | 2911 Centenary Blvd, Shreveport LA, 71104
- March 17, 2024, at 10 a.m. | Friendship-West Baptist Church | 2020 W. Wheatland Rd. Dallas, TX 75232
