September, 2008

XU student Caroline Robins & her parents are welcomed back 9/06 by President Francis following the 8-day campus evacuation caused by Hurricane Gustav.

Dear Members of the Xavier Community:

We often say that the fact Xavier University of Louisiana has survived numerous challenges all these years is a “miracle” in itself. Now that the campus has reopened following the evacuation caused by Hurricane Gustav, we offer thanks to God for this latest “miracle” for sparing Xavier of any serious campus damages.

I want to say thanks also to our more than 3,200 students and 650 staff and faculty employees for heeding the official warnings and successfully enacting their own personal evacuation plans with their families.  In addition, special thanks are offered to those administrative, staff and faculty employees who worked tirelessly for nearly two weeks -- first preparing the campus for Gustav, and then dealing with its aftermath so that Xavier could reopen as promised.

Even now, as the campus settles back into the routine of the Fall semester, the University leadership is mindful that the tropical season is not yet over, therefore we must remain vigilant to ensure the continued safety of our campus community.  Just as we did with Gustav, if and whenever such a threat is apparent, we will take all necessary steps to protect people and to secure our campus facilities.

As noted at the beginning of this message, Xavier has weathered previous hurricanes and other challenges for more than eighty years. We have enormous faith, we understand the power of prayer, and we remain a resilient community.

We hope and pray that the rest of the tropical season will spare the Gulf Coast. However, if something does threaten to come our way, rest assured the University will be ready – and based on our recent successful experience with Gustav, the Xavier community will be ready too! 

Gratefully yours,

Norman C. Francis
President