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Norman C. Francis, Influential Xavier President, Dies at 94

2/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Norman C. Francis, former president of Xavier University, died at 94, as announced by his family.
He led Xavier from 1968 to 2015 as its first Black and non-ordained president.
Under his leadership, Xavier improved its national standing in health and science education.
Francis received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2006 for civil rights contributions.
He is survived by six children and 11 grandchildren.

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Story summary

Norman C. Francis, former president of Xavier University, died at 94, as announced by his family.
He led Xavier from 1968 to 2015 as its first Black and non-ordained president.
Under his leadership, Xavier improved its national standing in health and science education.
Francis received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2006 for civil rights contributions.
He is survived by six children and 11 grandchildren.