An alumnus of Dillard returned to the Avenue of the Oaks to teach students of a new generation, the importance of their African roots and the fundamentals of music.

“I always wanted to come back to Dillard. It was my dream,” said Dr. Lucius Weathersby.
Weathersby is an established scholar. He obtained a bachelor’s degree from Dillard University and a master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa along with a doctrate from Union Institute.

While an undergraduate at Dillard in New Orleans, Weathersby found joy in studying music and German, and later shared his music skills with freshman Jubilee Scholars during chapel assemblies as they listened to him play the organ.

Now, less than 15 years after graduation, this individual has returned to Dilllard as a full-time professor.

Today, he continues to touch the lives of students with his lectures, musical talent and love for education.

Dr. Weathersby not only teaches six courses, but also conducts the Robert and Lillian Perry Singers of the B-Sharp Music Club.

As a professor, he has obtained great leadership skills. In fact, many who witnessed him serve as interim dean of the humanities department during the 2002-2003 school year might say the same.

“I was honored to be asked to be interim dean. My deanship was during a transitional period,” Weathersby said. “I think I gave my division leadership when it was in need of assistance.”
Weathersby also commends Dr. Danielle Taylor, the present dean of the humanities department.

“I think Dr. Taylor is doing a great job,” Weathersby said. Besides serving as interim dean, Weathersby also was the editor of the music section of the African World Studies Tapestry Press in August 2004.

Weathersby has published several articles, including his publication of Fela Sowande in the English scholarly journal called the Organ.

As many might notice, Dr. Weathersby is a very busy person. However, in his spare time, this professor says he enjoys the rest of his day by taking his son to piano lessons and out for lunch.
Many individuals would agree that teaching more than eight hours a day might make them exhausted, but this professor differs.

“I manage the time to work out five days a week,” Weathersby said.

Today, Weathersby continues not only to inspire his students, but colleagues as well, especially one very close to him, S. Carver Davenport, director of Dillard University Choirs/ associate professor of music.

Davenport has colloquial fond memories of his present colleague.

“I taught Lucius from his freshman to senior year at Dillard. He was a very astute student who had a very deep desire to succeed in everything that he was apart of. One thing I do remember is that Lucius wanted to become one of the best pipe organists in the United States,” Davenport said. “He inspired me to get a Ph.D. in music.”

Many professors would agree that it is an honor being well respected by their colleagues. However, Weathersby said that he loves to impart knowledge on his students and also loves when they empower his profession by giving him good remarks on his teaching.

Tressa M. Thomas, a history major from Baton Rouge, La. said she has taken three courses from Weathersby.

“Music is not just notes on paper, but an expression of emotions. It is a story that a person tells without saying a single word is what I have learned from Dr. Weathersby,” Thomas said.
Thomas also stated that by taking Weathersby for Humanities and African World Studies, she was able to realize how important it is to learn the roots of Africa and its place in history.

“I’ve had the pleasure of having Dr. Weathersby for two semesters. I’ve gotten to know him on another level,” said Jewel Smith, a sophomore psychology major from New Orleans. “He has broadened my horizons not only physically, but spiritually as well. He truly cares for his students.”
According to Dondraa Oliver, a sophomore public health major from Franklin, La., Dr. Weathersby is a remarkable professor.

“He reads the book aloud and makes sure you understand what he says and is always willing to help those who misunderstand a concept he is discussing. I must say, they need more professors like him,” said Oliver.

Debra Bissant, transcript coordinator – Veterans Administration Representative, recalls what she observes of the professor as his student and colleague.

“Professor Weathersby appears to get along real well with his students. There are two things he does not tolerate in his class and they are: being late and the ringing of cell phones during class lectures,” Bissant said. “His class is very interesting and enjoyable. There’s never a boring moment. He always walks into the class with a smile. Even when he’s not in class, wherever he sees you he is always pleasant and will always greet you with a smile.”

There comes a time when people deserve to have the spotlight on them in the work field, and for Dr. Lucis Weathersby, many agree that the time is now.