Magic Johnson Pledges $500K Donation To Xavier University To Honor Former President Norman C. Francis
On May 9, 2025, Xavier University held a ceremony to commemorate Norman C. Francis, the first Black president of the Historically Black College and University (HBCU), who also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President George W. Bush, notes WWLTV.
Francis previously attended the school before pursuing a law degree at Loyola University New Orleans, LA.
Upon returning to his alma mater, he wore various hats, beginning as the dean of men, then advancing to director of student personnel services (1963), assistant to the president for student affairs (1964), assistant to the president in charge of development (1965), executive vice president (1967), and president (1968), a position he held for 47 years, the university’s website mentions.
On campus, Francis was responsible for the construction behind most of the buildings across four decades. He also helped establish a core curriculum that positioned the university as a staple in education. This impact is reflected in statistics, including top national rankings for producing Black graduates with undergraduate degrees in biology and the life sciences, chemistry, physics, and pharmacy, as well as consistently leading the nation in the number of Black students admitted to medical school, the website also states.
“Today, Xavier University of Louisiana gathered with family, friends, and many whose lives have been impacted by Dr. Norman C. Francis, President Emeritus, for a special celebration in the St. Katharine Drexel Chapel,” the school said in a statement on Facebook. “We honored the placement of a bronze statue recognizing Dr. Francis, a towering figure in higher education and civil rights, whose impact continues to inspire generations. Rain couldn’t stop the celebration and thanks to our @xulagoldensound , the energy never missed a beat!”
Francis’ contributions to the school and field of education was also recognized by Johnson, who made a $500,000 pledge during a gala that pooled over $2 million in donations for student scholarships, according to NOLA.com.
“I’m so blessed to know him,” Johnson said, while addressing the now 94-year-old, per NOLA.com. He continued, the “man that you are, all the great things you’ve done in your stellar career and all the people you’ve helped become successful.”
