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Today in History: Patrick Healy inaugurated as first Black university president

7/31/2025

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Story summary

On July 31, 1874, Patrick Francis Healy was inaugurated as president of Georgetown University, marking a significant milestone as the first African American to lead a predominantly white university in the United States. Healy, a Jesuit priest, is often referred to as Georgetown's "second founder," and Healy Hall is named in his honor.

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Story summary

On July 31, 1874, Patrick Francis Healy was inaugurated as president of Georgetown University, marking a significant milestone as the first African American to lead a predominantly white university in the United States. Healy, a Jesuit priest, is often referred to as Georgetown's "second founder," and Healy Hall is named in his honor.