Delgado Community College: A Hub for Higher Education in New Orleans
Delgado Community College (DCC) is a prominent public community college serving the New Orleans metropolitan area in Louisiana. With a rich history spanning over a century, the institution provides accessible education and technical training to a diverse student body of approximately 19,000 students. As part of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, DCC plays a vital role in the region's academic and economic development.
History and Evolution
The institution first opened its doors in 1921 as the Delgado Trades School. Over the following decades, it underwent several reorganizations to better meet the needs of the community. In 1980, under the administration of Governor David C. Treen, the Louisiana State Legislature officially renamed the institution Delgado Community College.
Today, DCC is recognized as a space-grant institution, reflecting its commitment to science and technology education. Its identity is further defined by its school colors, green and gold, and its athletic nickname, the Dolphins.
Campus Locations and Service Area
Delgado operates an urban campus network designed to reach students across multiple parishes. The original City Park Campus is situated in the Navarre neighborhood, adjacent to the iconic New Orleans City Park. Additionally, the Sidney Collier Campus serves East New Orleans and provides convenient access for students from St. Bernard and St. Tammany parishes.
The college's official service area is extensive, covering New Orleans and Jefferson, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, and St. Tammany parishes. Documentation also indicates that Lafourche, St. Bernard, and Terrebonne parishes fall within its service reach.
While the college previously expanded into St. Tammany Parish with the Delgado Northshore campus in Covington (opened in 1987) and a learning center in Slidell, both locations have since closed. The Covington campus closed after the spring 2014 semester, and the Slidell campus closed in 2016 due to financial constraints.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Athletics and Student Life
The Delgado Dolphins compete in intercollegiate athletics under the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division 1, Region 23. They are also members of the Louisiana Community Colleges Athletic Conference (LCCAC).
The athletic program features three primary teams: baseball, men's basketball, and women's basketball. The baseball team competes at "Rags" Scheuermann Field at Kirsch-Rooney Stadium, while the basketball teams play their home games at the Michael Williamson Center.
Notable Figures
Delgado has been home to several distinguished individuals. Notable alumni include Grammy Award-winning artist Irma Thomas and Billy Kennedy, an assistant basketball coach for Wichita State. The institution has also employed influential figures such as Cameron Henry, a former adjunct business professor who served as a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives for District 82.
Key Facts
- Established: 1921 (originally as Delgado Trades School).
- Student Population: Approximately 19,000.
- Parent System: Louisiana Community and Technical College System.
- Primary Locations: New Orleans (Orleans Parish) and Jefferson Parish.
- Athletic Affiliation: NJCAA Division 1, Region 23.
- Colors: Green and Gold.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Public Community College |
| Nickname | Dolphins |
| Service Area | Orleans, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, St. Tammany, Lafourche, St. Bernard, and Terrebonne parishes |
| Website | www.dcc.edu |
| Academic Affiliation | Space-grant |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Delgado Community College founded?
The institution was established in 1921, originally operating as the Delgado Trades School before being renamed Delgado Community College in 1980.
Which parishes does Delgado Community College serve?
DCC serves New Orleans and Jefferson, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, and St. Tammany parishes, as well as Lafourche, St. Bernard, and Terrebonne parishes.
What sports teams are part of the Delgado Dolphins?
The Delgado Dolphins consist of three athletic teams: baseball, men's basketball, and women's basketball.
Where is the main campus located?
The original City Park Campus is located in the Navarre neighborhood of New Orleans, adjacent to New Orleans City Park.
Are there still campuses in St. Tammany Parish?
No. The Covington campus closed in 2014 and the Slidell campus closed in 2016.