Dillard-Goldsboro Alumni & Friends Association: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
The Dillard-Goldsboro Alumni & Friends Association (DGAF) stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of two significant educational institutions in Goldsboro, North Carolina: Dillard High School and Goldsboro High School. Founded on principles of service, unity, and fellowship, the organization has been a cornerstone of the African American community in Goldsboro since 1956. Its unwavering commitment to preserving history, fostering community, and empowering future generations through scholarships has earned it a distinguished place in the city's narrative.
A Proclamation of Appreciation
The Goldsboro City Council, on May 19, 2025, formally recognized the Dillard-Goldsboro Alumni & Friends Association with a proclamation. This commendation acknowledged the organization's tireless efforts in safeguarding the rich history of Dillard High School and Goldsboro High School, both of which have profoundly impacted African American education within the city.
The Historical Roots of Dillard High School
Dillard High School's story began in 1866 as a private institution dedicated to the education of Black students. Over the decades, it evolved into a vital center of learning and empowerment for countless individuals. In 1894, Reverend Clarence Dillard assumed the role of principal, and the school was subsequently named in his honor. Dillard High School achieved accreditation from the North Carolina State Department of Public Instruction in 1926 and further recognition from the Southern Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools in 1937.
The Vision of Hugh Victor Brown
Hugh Victor Brown succeeded Reverend Dillard as principal in 1924 and played a pivotal role in shaping the school's future. In 1955, Professor Brown conceived the idea of a grand homecoming celebration, inviting all alumni who had graduated since 1926 to commemorate 30 years of accreditation of their alma mater. He dedicated his resources to locating alumni, many of whom resided in the Northern States, and initiated plans for a significant homecoming event in 1956.
The Birth of the Alumni Association
Coming together on an annual basis in tribute to the great accomplishments of the school was realized through the efforts of H.V. Brown, principal. He provided the atmosphere and set the stage for alumni members to fulfill this mission by organizing, chartering, and incorporating this association that we enjoy today. The success of this initial gathering led to the formation of the Dillard-Goldsboro Alumni Association, solidifying the bonds between alumni and ensuring the continuation of Dillard High School's legacy.
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A Legacy of Unity and Service
Alumni and friends continue to return to Goldsboro each Memorial Day Weekend for homecoming celebrations and reunions in remembrance of Dillard and the dream Brown turned into a reality. We salute the memory of Hugh Victor Brown for his dream and legacy of unity and service he instilled into the members of Dillard/Goldsboro Alumni and Friends and to the Goldsboro/Wayne County community. The DGAF has become synonymous with unity, service, and fellowship, fostering connections among individuals through various activities such as tutoring, mentoring, and community events.
The H.V. Brown Fellowship Hall
In 2000, the organization acquired and renovated the former East End Elementary School, transforming the old gymnasium into the H.V. Brown Fellowship Hall. This facility serves as a versatile venue for banquets, dances, reunions, and other celebrations, accommodating up to 400 guests. The H.V. Brown Fellowship Hall offers a welcoming space for banquets, dances, reunions, and celebrations of every kind. With seating for up to 400 guests-or smaller spaces available for more intimate gatherings-our facility provides kitchen access, A/V equipment, and flexible options to make your event memorable. The H.V. Brown Fellowship Hall is a local, non-profit organization committed to maintaining affordable venue options, open to all. We are continuously improving our facilities to fit your various needs. In addition to rentals, DGAF also has rooms in our adjacent Neal Stitt Building, open to Dillard & Goldsboro High classes at no cost to meet in person every 3rd Saturday of the month.
The Closure of Dillard High School and its Enduring Impact
In 1969, Dillard High School closed its doors, and students were transferred to Goldsboro High School. Although the original high school no longer exists, its spirit lives on through the Dillard-Goldsboro Alumni & Friends Association. Dillard is now a middle school and house grades 7th and 8th under the leadership of Sylvester Townsend as the principal.
Empowering Future Generations Through Scholarships
A central focus of the DGAF is providing scholarships to deserving students. As Ernest “Mutt” Lofton, a member of the Dillard High School Class of 1954, stated, “Our main goal is scholarships. The goal is to reach a million dollars in scholarship money. That’s a lot of money in scholarships-and we are still giving them out." Dillard/Goldsboro Alumni & Friends proudly awards annual scholarships to deserving students who embody academic excellence, leadership, and service. Open to area graduates and legacy heirs, these awards help continue a tradition of education and empowerment. High school students are able to apply for college scholarships through their guidance counselor. It is the responsibility of the National Scholarship Committee to use the scholarship criteria to select recipients and award scholarships made available to the organization by individual and group contributors.
The King and Queen Contest: A Tradition of Giving
The DGAF King and Queen Contest stands as one of the Alumni Association’s most cherished traditions and one of our most successful scholarship fundraising initiatives. The annual King and Queen Contest serves as a spirited fundraising event, uniting alumni in a collective effort to support the next generation. This year’s King and Queen Contest is more than a competition-it is a celebration of tradition, unity, and the enduring power of alumni giving. Alumni class, rallying classmates and supporters in a spirited effort to raise scholarship funds and invest in the next generation. Take a moment to browse through the photo gallery below to view our parade of Alumni Kings and Queens from the 70th Anniversary. In 2026, the organization celebrated the contributions of Queen Treva for her service over the past two years. Ms. Thursday, May 21, 2026. We extend our deepest appreciation to Queen Treva for her grace, dedication, and unwavering pride over the past two years. 2026 contestants-an extraordinary group of women who have answered the call to lead.
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Looking Ahead: The 71st Annual Homecoming
As we enter 2026, I want to sincerely thank our alumni and friends for walking with us through a very full and meaningful 2025. It was a year that reminded us of the importance of staying connected, supporting one another, and remaining committed to the communities we serve. Because of your continued support, we were able to focus on what matters most-our children, our families, and preserving the legacy of Dillard/Goldsboro. Jamarius D. The DGAF continues to look forward to the 71st Annual Homecoming and the continued work we are committed to doing throughout the year.I invite you to remain engaged, stay connected, and continue being part of this journey with us. Your presence and support truly make a difference.
Read also: Legacy of Dillard University
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