NEW ORLEANS – The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority mourns the passing of Norman C. Francis, a civil rights icon and towering leader in education whose decades as president of Xavier University of Louisiana, shaped the lives of thousands of young people. His commitment to education and opportunity created a legacy that extends far beyond New Orleans and continues to influence generations. 

RTA CEO Lona Edwards Hankins said, “RTA extends condolences to Dr. Norman C. Francis’ family and the Xavier community while honoring a life defined by service, leadership, and belief in the power of education to change lives.”  

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The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority is a political sub-division of the State of Louisiana which is operated by an independent Board of Commissioners that serves Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Bernard Parishes. The agency operates car and passenger ferries, fixed-route buses, Paratransit, and streetcar services. For updates, service alerts, and agency news, follow the RTA on social media: @neworleansrta on Instagram, X (Twitter), and Facebook, and New Orleans Regional Transit Authority on LinkedIn.