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stake���� raised more than $2 million at its Centennial Gala, presented by Ochsner Health, on May 8. Hosted as part of the university’s 100th-anniversary fête to pay homage to a century of excellence and community impact, the event honored the historic legacy and ongoing contributions of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament and President Emeritus Dr. Norman C. Francis. It was hosted by actor and comedian Bill Bellamy, with a performance by R&B/Soul legend Jeffrey Osborne, and remarks from journalist Bryant Gumbel. 

"When Saint Katharine Drexel founded Xavier University, she dared to imagine a world where education is an instrument of justice, a force for healing, and a path toward leadership for those the world too often overlooks,” explained Xavier President Dr. Reynold Verret. “She planted a seed of hope that has flourished with every generation. We honor the incredible legacy that brings us to this centennial celebration and look ahead. The funds raised through the gala — every gift, every act of generosity — will directly support scholarships, ensuring that more students have access to the education they deserve and the future they dream of."

One of the most notable contributions came from NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, who pledged $500,000 to Xavier in honor of Norman C. Francis (’52), who went on to lead the University for 47 years as president. Under his leadership, Xavier became a leader in sending Black students to medical school, the campus community expanded, enrollment tripled, and the university’s historic legacy began to shape. Dr. Francis is celebrated as a trailblazer in education and civil rights who has made profound contributions to the nation.

“The mark of a great man is who shows up,” Johnson said in his tribute to Dr. Francis at the Gala. “Because the man that you are, all the great things that you've done in your stellar career. And all the people that you helped. You became successful through your great leadership at Xavier… In your honor, I’m going to give Xavier $500,000.”

All proceeds from the gala will support student scholarships.

"Our Centennial Gala was a beautiful success,” said Phillip D. Adams, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “Not just that it honored Xavier's storied legacy, but that we raised more than $2 million to secure the futures of deserving students who choose a Xavier education. In just 100 years, Xavier has amassed various accolades, solidifying itself as a leader. I'm honored that we have been able to steadily raise necessary scholarship funds, and I look forward to what we can achieve in our next 100 years of excellence."