Remembering Dr. Norman C. Francis

The city of New Orleans has lost a pivotal guiding light this morning with the passing of Dr. Norman C. Francis.

A 1955 alumnus, Dr. Francis broke barriers as the first Black man to enroll in Loyola University New Orleans College of Law and opened the door to generations of legal leaders who followed in his footsteps. He inspired many law students – myself included – to use the law as a tool for advancing justice and serving our neighbors.

Dr. Francis’s love for the city of New Orleans ran deep. His life work revolved around advocating for those who needed it most, whether it was working with Freedom Riders in the civil rights movement, fighting segregation across the country after law school, or advocating for resources to rebuild Xavier University and the city after Hurricane Katrina. His work reflected his belief that New Orleans was a home for all of us. 

To those of us at the College of Law, Dr. Francis is a constant reminder of our Jesuit mission to serve selflessly, act with integrity, and advance justice. His legacy fills our school and touches every student who walks our halls. 

We extend our deepest sympathies and love to Dr. Francis’s family and friends, and we join those around the city, state, and country in celebrating his life.

– Dean Madeleine Landrieu