Norman C. Francis, civil rights champion, dies at 94

Norman C. Francis, longtime president of Xavier University and a civil rights leader who helped lead Louisiana's post-Katrina recovery, has died at age 94.

Norman C. Francis, a civil rights leader and longtime president of Xavier University in New Orleans, has died at age 94. Xavier University confirmed his death on Wednesday. Francis led the university for 47 years beginning in 1968 and played a prominent role in the state's recovery work after Hurricane Katrina. He was recognized nationally for his work in education and civil rights. Key details: - Xavier University confirmed Francis's death and reported he was 94. - He served as president of Xavier University for 47 years, starting in 1968, and expanded the school's enrollment and programs. - After Hurricane Katrina, Francis headed the Louisiana Recovery Authority, which oversaw aspects of the rebuilding effort. - University and civic leaders, including Xavier president Reynold Verret and former Mayor Mitch Landrieu, issued tributes noting his service and dignity. Summary: Francis's death represents the loss of a long-standing figure in higher education and civil rights who also took a public role in post-Katrina recovery. Officials and community members have publicly honored his decades of service to students and the region. Undetermined at this time.