Xavier University of Louisiana President Outlines University's Vision

New Orleans La – Xavier University of Louisiana President Reynold Verret recently unveiled his “20/20 Vision” for the University to statewide business and community leaders, conveying some elements of the of the institution's long-range strategic plan as Xavier approaches its 95th Anniversary in 2020.

"We are inspired by our foundress, St. Katherine Drexel and her vision, ability, and commitment to adapt and evolve to meet the changing needs of her times," said Verret. "The spirit of Xavier is excellence with a conscience, but the power of Xavier is our strength of community, and we feel it is important to share our vision with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of Xavier around the country. My 20/20 vision was inspired by our beloved University that rises to meet the challenges of today while upholding our mission, and legacy for future Xavierites."

These are the eight key elements of President Verret's Vision 20/20: 

·  Sustain our mission and honor our African American traditions and Catholic values;

·  Maintain academic rigor, standards of excellence, and outcomes;

·  Promote an inclusive learning community that provides a safe and welcoming environment for all members;

·  Elevate Xavier's reputation and recognition for providing its students with an exceptional academic curriculum;

·  Contribute to equity and societal resilience in our region, especially by advancing high-quality pre-collegiate education for all;

·  Build programmatic breadth in our undergraduate, graduate and professional schools;

·  Grow enrollment through innovative recruitment;

·  Sustain and support the environment of research and inquiry that addresses matters of importance to the larger society, the Church, and the African diaspora.

As part of the strategic plan, Verret touted some new Xavier programs which have already been implemented, including its new Doctorate of Education and Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience programs, the first Neuroscience program offered by a Historically Black College in the country. Additionally, the university recently opened The Center for Equity, Justice, and the Human Spirit - the first of its kind. The Center will serve as an intellectual and physical convening place for research, teaching, community engagement, and debate on issues related to race-based inequities, social identity production, and power relations that are embedded in our intellectual programs and across academic disciplines.

"We will leverage our rich history, record of success, and uniqueness to challenge boundaries, engage traditional and new audiences, advance knowledge pursuits, and be leaders," added Verret. "We will not stand still in changing times and we will spread Xavier's mission throughout the U.S."