Overview
- Xavier University confirmed his death on Wednesday, with President Reynold Verret praising his national impact.
- He expanded Xavier’s campus from five to 16 buildings and centered the university on science and pre‑med, helping diversify the health‑science workforce.
- He integrated Loyola University New Orleans’ law school in 1955 and welcomed the Freedom Riders to Xavier after the Anniston attack in 1961.
- He headed the Louisiana Recovery Authority after Hurricane Katrina and pledged Xavier’s rapid reopening despite severe flooding.
- He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom and 22 honorary degrees as tributes arrived from civic leaders, higher‑education peers, and the New Orleans Saints.