Student honor ‘Ms. Du’ with vigil

About 39 students gathered Thursday night around the Eternal Flame to pay tribute to Delores Dupont-Randolph.

Standing in a circle holding white candles, each student recalled an experience with the Student Government Association administrative assistant, who they knew as “Lady Du” or “Ms. Du.”

Dupont died April 10 after struggling with cancer.

She began working at Florida A&M University in the Registrar’s Office in 1977. She then moved to Special Programs and Services, Financial Aid, the Student Government Association and the Office Student Union and Activities.

Many said they knew Dupont for her good work ethic and honesty.

A memorial was held earlier that day around 3:30 p.m. in Lee Hall and was open to the entire University.

However, students wanted to remember Dupont in their own way and decided to meet later on that night.

“Ms. Du was like a mother away from home. She was a key piece in my development as a leader,” said SGA Vice President Keneisha Grant, 21, a graduating political science senior from Fort Lauderdale.

Students who worked with Dupont recalled how she always gave more than what was expected.

“Ms. Dupont was a part of a tradition and she is definitely going to be missed,” said Joycelyn Morris, a business administration student from West Palm Beach.

Dupont’s tough love and hard work influenced those fortunate enough to have an encounter with her.

Kimberly Peck, 21, a junior political science student from Monticello, remembered how Dupont motivated her.

“Just looking at her made me work hard because I saw her working hard,” Peck said.

Saundra Inge, the associate director of the OSUA, said she was determined to have a memorial for Dupont because many of the students did not know what a positive influence she had on campus. She said Dupont gave so much that she put her own health on hold.

Dupont’ funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church.