NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana will unveil a statue of former university President Dr. Norman C. Francis in honor of Black History Month.
With the school approaching its 100th year anniversary, the unveiling ceremony will honor the legacy and contributions of Dr. Francis to Xavier, the state of Louisiana and his work in improving higher education for all, the university said in a release.
Dr. Francis became Xavier University's first Black and lay president in 1968, serving in advisory roles to eight U.S. presidents on civil rights and education issues. He also served on 54 boards and commissions.
In 2018, the current President Dr. Reynold Verret submitted a proposal to the New Orleans City Council that renamed Jefferson Davis Parkway to Norman C. Francis Parkway.
The ceremony will be held Saturday, Feb. 24 at 7900 Stroelitz Street in the university's Convocation Center on the second floor, starting at 11:30 a.m.
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