Dr. Francis is the definition of a Xavierite - a lifelong learner who leads through exploration and advocacy while empowering the Black community. The university teaches humility and advocacy which are exemplified by this '52 XULA graduate. For his 91st birthday, we honor the nearly 60 years Dr. Francis served at Xavier and recognized his courage and foresight for what Xavier and Xavierites would become.
Student Workers Jasmine Malone (Spanish major, XULA '22) and Jyana Seamon (Biology Pre-med, XULA '23) curated the exhibit titled "Norman C. Francis Wall of Fame: Celebrating the Life and Highlights of Xavier's First Black and Layman President" and it is currently on view in Xavier's library on the 3rd floor until June 30th. The purpose of this exhibit is to highlight moment's of activism and joy as it relates to Dr. Francis and XULA.
The Initial idea for the exhibit was to highlight important figures with materials in our Archive and Special Collections during Black History Month. After considering several Civil Rights activists, it was clear we had a prominent leader and icon who we knew very well: Dr. Norman C Francis. The goal for this exhibit was to highlight Dr. Norman C. Francis's legacy and contribution to the Black community by giving a face to the name. Dr. Francis retired in 2015, therefore many current Xavierites are unaware of the man who the Academic/ Science Complex is named after.
Learn more about Dr. Francis from the video below and visit our Archives and Special Collections for more interesting materials about Xavier's history!
Jasmine Malone is a spanish major at Xavier University of Louisiana, class of '22, who will pursue a Master's in Library Science after graduation. As a student worker at the Xavier University Library, Jasmine learns valuable archival and librarianship skills that promote the accessibility and preservation of historic material. She hopes this project will encourage students to preserve their favorite materials and even stop by the university archives!
Jyana Seaman is a 23 y/o international student from the Commonwealth of Dominica. She is a junior biology pre med student here at Xavier University of Louisiana. She serves as a repository specialist and student assistant in the Archives and Special Collections Department. She intends to begin medical school after Xavier to become an OBGYN.
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