Catholic Charities USA Presents Centennial Medal to Xavier University

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Apr 23, 2012, 03:00 ET

Award Recognizes its Commitment to Racial Equality in Higher Education

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 23, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rev. Larry Snyder, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, presented Xavier University President Dr. Norman Francis with a Centennial Medal for the University's commitment to racial equality in higher education.

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The medal was presented by Rev. Snyder who said, "As one of the only historically Black Catholic Universities, Xavier University exemplifies the critical role that access to education plays in eliminating poverty." He added, "It is an honor to present this award to Xavier University, not only in recognition of what it has contributed to our country in the past, but also for the difference in the lives of so many that it will continue to make far in the future."

Xavier University of Louisiana, founded by Saint Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, is a historically Black Catholic institution of higher learning. The school aims to prepare its students to assume roles of leadership and service in a global society to bring about a more just and humane society. The school prides itself on offering a unique experience that relies on its rich Catholic heritage to provide a diverse learning and teaching environment that incorporates academics, research and community service.

The Centennial Medal, a symbol of Catholic Charities USA's first 100 years, recognizes the valuable contributions of individuals and organizations to the reduction of poverty in the United States and the work that Catholic Charities staff and volunteers perform every day in service to the least among us.

About Catholic Charities USA

Catholic Charities USA is the national office for Catholic Charities agencies nationwide. Catholic Charities USA's members provide help and create hope for more than 10 million people a year regardless of religious, social, or economic backgrounds. For almost 300 years, Catholic Charities agencies have worked to reduce poverty by providing a myriad of vital services in their communities, ranging from health care and job training to food and housing.

SOURCE Catholic Charities USA