Norman C. Francis, Civil Rights Champion, Dies at 94

Francis was a pioneering educator and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Norman C. Francis, a civil rights champion and longtime president of Xavier University in New Orleans, has died at the age of 94. Francis played a pivotal role in helping rebuild New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2006 for his contributions to education and civil rights.

Why it matters

Francis was a trailblazing figure in the civil rights movement and higher education, serving as president of the only historically Black Catholic university in the U.S. for nearly 50 years. His leadership and advocacy helped advance racial equality and expand educational opportunities, particularly for Black students.

The details

During his 47-year tenure as president of Xavier University, Francis oversaw a doubling of enrollment, growth of the endowment, and campus expansion. The university gained a national reputation for preparing Black students for medical professions and other STEM fields. After Hurricane Katrina devastated parts of the Xavier campus, Francis vowed the college would return, playing a key role in the city's rebuilding efforts.

  • Norman C. Francis died on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
  • Francis became president of Xavier University in 1968 and held the position for 47 years until his retirement.
  • In 2006, then-President George W. Bush awarded Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The players

Norman C. Francis

A civil rights pioneer and longtime president of Xavier University in New Orleans, the nation's only predominantly Black Catholic university.

Reynold Verret

The president of Xavier University, who confirmed Francis' death in a statement.

Mitch Landrieu

The former mayor of New Orleans, who said he often turned to Francis for advice and counsel, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

George W. Bush

The former U.S. president who awarded Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2006.

Troy Carter

A U.S. Representative from Louisiana who praised Francis as an "institution builder, a civil rights champion, and a man of quiet generosity."

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What they’re saying

“The nation is better and richer for his having lived among us.”

— Reynold Verret, President of Xavier University (Xavier University)

“After Katrina, Francis 'stood in the breach.' I often turned to him for advice and counsel — including in 'his toughest moments.'”

— Mitch Landrieu, Former Mayor of New Orleans (X)

“Dr. Francis was more than an administrator. He was an institution builder, a civil rights champion, and a man of quiet generosity. He believed education was the pathway to justice. He believed lifting one student could lift an entire family.”

— Troy Carter, U.S. Representative from Louisiana (Social media)

The takeaway

Norman C. Francis' legacy as a pioneering civil rights leader, renowned educator, and champion of racial equality will continue to inspire generations of students and leaders. His unwavering commitment to expanding educational opportunities, particularly for Black Americans, has left an indelible mark on the nation.