Loyola University New Orleans Mourns the Passing of Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin, Trustee Emeritus, Civic Leader and Philanthropist

Loyola University New Orleans joins the New Orleans community in mourning the passing of Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin, distinguished civic leader, attorney, philanthropist and former member of the University’s Board of Trustees.

Benjamin died peacefully at her home on May 30, 2026, at the age of 93. Throughout her lifetime, she dedicated her talents, leadership and generosity to strengthening many of the city’s most important institutions, including Loyola University.

A native of New Orleans, Benjamin was known for her intellect, commitment to education and unwavering devotion to her hometown. A graduate of Newcomb College and Tulane Law School, she was admitted to the Louisiana Bar in 1956 and built a distinguished legal career.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, she became one of the city’s most respected civic leaders, serving in influential roles across the arts, education, philanthropy and historic preservation.

Benjamin’s relationship with Loyola University spanned decades. She served on Loyola’s Board of Trustees from 1989 to 1998 and played a leading role in the University’s capital campaign efforts. As co-chair of a major capital campaign, she helped advance Loyola’s mission and support significant campus improvements, including fundraising efforts that led to the building of the new Monroe Library.

In recognition of her extraordinary service and leadership, Loyola awarded Benjamin its prestigious Integritas Vitae Award in 1994. The University’s highest honor, the award recognizes individuals whose lives exemplify the values of integrity, moral character, service and leadership. Loyola later conferred upon Benjamin an honorary doctorate in 2008, celebrating her enduring contributions to the University and the broader New Orleans community.

"Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin understood that music and the arts are essential to the cultural fabric of New Orleans, and her generosity helped ensure that Loyola students would have the opportunity to learn, create and lead for generations to come," said Sheryl Kennedy Haydel, Dean of the College of Music and Media. "Adelaide's belief in the power of education and the arts transformed lives, and her legacy will continue to inspire the Loyola community for many years to come."