Loyola University to Launch Inaugural College of Music and Media Hall of Fame Celebration

Loyola University will host its inaugural College of Music and Media Hall of Fame Celebration on April 15 at the New Orleans Jazz Museum - a landmark event that will honor the extraordinary accomplishments of alumni from the School of Music and Theatre Professions and the School of Communication and Design.

The public is invited to participate through tax-deductible sponsorships or ticket purchases. For sponsorship details and tickets, visit loyno.edu/cmmhof.

The event, which takes place from 6 to 8:30 p.m., will feature live music, food, signature cocktails, and opportunities for alumni, supporters and industry leaders to reconnect and network.

The evening serves as the official launch of the College of Music and Media Hall of Fame, a new tradition recognizing alumni whose careers exemplify innovation, leadership, and Loyola's Ignatian values on national and global stages.

"This historic celebration highlights the remarkable impact of our alumni and the strength of our creative community," said Sheryl Kennedy Haydel, Dean of the College of Music and Media at Loyola. "Their achievements inspire our current students and demonstrate the power of a Loyola education in shaping the future of the arts and media."

2026 Hall of Fame Honorees

Den of Distinction

• Dominic Massa '98, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, WYES New Orleans
• Nessim Higson '97, Global Creative Director, Studio IAAH

NextGen Den

• Lily Cummings '20, Anchor/Reporter, WWL Louisiana
• Michael Lardizabal '23, Coordinator, Redefine Entertainment
• Ashleigh Sparks '16, Development Manager, The Idea Village

The Howlies

• Kendall Cousin '15, Senior Director of International Marketing, Interscope Records
• Chaz Sexton '15, Chief Engineer, East/West Studios
• Ryan Rillette '95, Artistic Director, Round House Theatre
• Bari Bellard '17, Stage Manager, "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child"
• Alfred Walker '94, internationally renowned operatic bass-baritone, The Metropolitan Opera's "Porgy & Bess"
• Emily Barber '16, Director of Production, Central City Opera

In addition to honoring alumni, the College will introduce its first Ovation Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions by faculty and staff.

The Hall of Fame Celebration also serves as a key fundraising initiative within the College of Music and Media. Proceeds will directly benefit student initiatives, ensuring continued support for emerging talent in music, media and the performing arts.

About the College of Music and Media

The College of Music and Media is comprised of two schools - the School of Music and Theatre Professions and the School of Communication and Design. Students who choose to study in the college prepare for careers in music, theatre, music industry, graphic design, motion design, UX design, filmmaking, strategy, mass media and more.