“Press Forward. Fear Nothing.” This is Xavier University of Louisiana’s tagline for its Centennial celebration and campaign. The university has currently raised $100 million in its procession forward to the next century of excellence in education. 

In March of 2024, the only Catholic HBCU in the nation met this monumental milestone towards its $500 million Centennial Campaign, twenty million of which was provided by an anonymous donor. Another portion was from MacKenzie Scott who included Xavier as one of the 120 organizations to which she donated $1.7 billion of her fortune. Xavier also received benefits from the recent landmark $100 Million Lilly Endowment grant bestowed upon UNCF. 

Xavier University President Reynold Verret stated that this fast break toward the goal is an acknowledgment of Xavier’s value as an institution. Verret said, “Our generous supporters know that an investment in Xavier is not only an investment in our current students, but it’s an investment in social justice, racial justice and the future of our communities.” Playmaker and Campaign Chair Gladstone Jones is confident that the university is well on its way to a $500 million goal.

XULA has maintained for decades, and seeks to continue its high-ranking status in sending African American graduates to Medical School through funds from the campaign in addition to expanding its work. The university has outlined how it will continue its winning streak through the following priorities.

Priority #1: Increasing Affordability and Access Through Financial Assistance

XULA will ensure equal access to a transformative education to all students. Current campaign funds have helped establish 48 new endowed scholarships and 54 new annually funded scholarships.

Priority #2: Investing in the Well-Being and Success of the Entire Student

Xavier will build on its current successes and expand support to students in all majors while also supporting the whole student — mentally, physically and spiritually. 

Priority #3: Matching our Campus to our Potential

Upgrade plans include current active projects such as the Art Gallery/Administration Building and anticipated projects to facilities like its College of Pharmacy.

Priority #4: Recruiting and Retaining Exceptional Faculty and Expanding Academic Programs

XULA’s business and entrepreneurship, teacher preparation, and STEM programs will be prioritized and expanded to meet the needs of students. 

In its full court press forward, a new College of Medicine in partnership with Ochsner Health, is also on the horizon for Xavier University. 

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