SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 948
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize Dr. Norman C. Francis, who is retiring as president of
Xavier University of Louisiana on June 30, 2015, after 56 years
of distinguished service at the institution; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Francis is a greatly respected leader in the
field of higher education; he has served as president of Xavier
University of Louisiana for 47 years, and under his leadership,
the university has earned a stellar reputation for academic
excellence and student achievement; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Francis has worked diligently to ensure the
success of the university and of the students who have enrolled
at the school throughout his tenure; in 2015, the institution was
named one of the nation's best colleges by the Princeton Review; and
WHEREAS, Xavier University of Louisiana is ranked number
one in the nation by number of bachelor's degrees awarded to
African American students in biological and biomedical sciences,
physical sciences, and physics and is also ranked number one by
number of African American graduates who go on to complete
medical school; 71 percent of students at the university are
enrolled in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics
programs; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Francis has played a key role in the long and
distinguished history of Xavier University of Louisiana; his
professional contributions have positioned the university to
continue on a path of success well into the future, and his
presence will be greatly missed; and
WHEREAS, In recognition of his exemplary service,
Dr. Francis is being honored at a special ceremony at the
historic Julia Ideson Public Library in Houston on May 23, 2015;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th
Legislature, hereby commend Dr. Norman C. Francis on his
exceptional leadership as president of Xavier University of
Louisiana and extend to him best wishes for the future; and, be
it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.
Ellis
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President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on May 21, 2015.
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Secretary of the Senate
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Member, Texas Senate