Xavier University News July 2015 Xavier Board Names Francis President Emeritus The Xavier University of Louisiana Board of Trustees has named Dr. Norman C. Francis President Emeritus in recognition of his more than half century of outstanding and faithful service to the historically Black and Catholic university. In a resolution passed unanimously by the Board at its June 6, 2015 meeting, the Trustees conferred this honorary title, which is reserved for those who have served an institution with exceptional distinction. "Dr. Francis has left an everlasting mark upon this university, and thus, it is fitting that the Board grant him this perpetual honor" said Michael Rue, the chairman of Xavier's Board of Trustees. Dr. Francis' 56 year tenure of loyal service to Xavier, including the last 47 years as president, has been extraordinary. His dedication, devotion, and integrity have been iconic symbols of the raison d'etre for Xavier as articulated by its foundress, St. Katharine Drexel. Guided by Dr. Francis, Xavier has earned a national and global reputation for the highest standards of academic achievement and remarkable success. Xavier alumni are consistently recognized for their academic preparation, skilled leadership, and generous service focused on social justice and equity. Under Dr. Francis' leadership, with the outstanding support and involvement of First Lady Blanche Francis, Xavier has significantly increased its enrollment, been ranked as a top academic institution, expanded its campus, and strengthened its financial base. During his and Xavier's greatest challenge, the devastation of the flooding following Hurricane Katrina, Dr. Francis led the effort to rebuild, rapidly reopen, and continually improve the campus, which resumed classes in less than six months. Dr. Francis is revered widely and most appropriately as a "servant-leader." Throughout his life, Dr. Francis' energy, faith, and his desire to work for a more just and humane society have never wavered. Xavier's Board members indicate that the title conveys not only distinction but expresses the esteem and gratitude of the Board for his commitment and steadfast fidelity to Xavier's mission. SANDRA M. PHOENIX Executive Director HBCU Library Alliance sphoenix@hbculibraries.org<mailto:sphoenix@hbculibraries.org> www.hbculibraries.org<http://www.hbculibraries.org/> 800-999-8558, ext. 4820 404-702-5854 Skype: sandra.phoenix1 1438 West Peachtree NW Suite 200 Atlanta,GA 30309 Toll Free: 1.800.999.8558 (LYRASIS) Fax: 404.892.7879 www.lyrasis.org<http://www.lyrasis.org/> Honor the ancestors, honor the children.