I’m deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend, Norman Francis, the first Black president of Xavier University of Louisiana and civil rights pioneer. Bolstered by strong values of faith and community, Norman served as America’s longest-serving college president. Because of his leadership, Xavier is consistently cited for sending more Black students to medical school than any other four-year college in the U.S. The first Black student to integrate Loyola University in 1952, the life of Norman Francis was, in so many ways, exceptional.
Norman was a tenacious warrior on the battlefield of justice. Serving on the Board of the Voter Education Project under his Chairmanship was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. And working with him during the Katrina/Rita crisis was a real blessing. Norman was an embodiment of Luke 12:48, “to whom much is given, much is required.”
My prayers are with his family and loved ones.