WHAT:
To mark the Centennial Year of Xavier University of Louisiana, Georgetown will host an event titled “Reflecting on the Significance of the Institute for Black Catholic Studies and the Journey Toward Reconciliation.”
The event, which will feature a discussion including speakers from the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier University of Louisiana, the Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation, and Georgetown, will also provide an opportunity for guests to engage with an exhibition highlighting Xavier University’s Institute for Black Catholic Studies (IBCS).
The exhibition, co-created by the Georgetown University Library, highlights IBCS – Xavier University’s influential graduate program – and its transformative work with its students and community members over the last 45 years.
January 2025 marks the start of a year-long celebration commemorating the founding of Xavier University of Louisiana in 1925 by Saint Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament.
WHO:
- Kathleen Dorsey Bellows, director, Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier University of Louisiana
- Joseph Ferrara, senior vice president and chief of staff, Georgetown University
- Harriette Hemmasi, dean of the library, Georgetown University
- Father Timothy P. Kesicki, S.J., trust chair, Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation and SJ Rector of the Bellarmine House of Studies at St. Louis University
- Monique Trusclair Maddox, president & CEO, Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation
WHEN: Thursday, February 27, 2025, 4:00 p.m. EST
WHERE: Copley Formal Lounge, Georgetown University
*livestream link available to media upon request – not for public promotion*
RSVP:
Media wishing to attend must RSVP by emailing media@georgetown.edu. Space is limited and not guaranteed until confirmed by Georgetown’s Office of Communications.
The question-and-answer portion of the event is limited to members of the Georgetown community.
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About Georgetown University:
Established in 1789 by Archbishop John Carroll, Georgetown is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit university in the United States. Located in Washington DC, Doha, Qatar, and around the world, Georgetown University is a leading academic and research institution, offering a unique educational experience that prepares the next generation of global citizens to lead and make a difference in the world. For more information about Georgetown University, visit Georgetown.edu or connect with Georgetown on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Instagram.
About Xavier University of Louisiana:
Celebrating its first 100 years of service, Xavier University of Louisiana remains America’s only historically Black and Catholic University. It is ranked among the top HBCUs in the nation and is recognized as a national leader in STEM and health sciences. Xavier has historically produced more African American students who graduate from medical schools each year than any other university in the United States. Additionally, Xavier’s College of Pharmacy is among the country’s top producers of African American pharmacists. Established in 1925 by Saint Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, Xavier has since expanded its programs in nearly every industry, including the arts, sciences, business, education, pharmacy, and political science. Xavier students receive an unbeatable experience of traditional classroom study, hands-on research, service-learning opportunities, and life experiences, collaborating with world-renowned faculty and topic experts. The winning Xavier formula provides students with a well-balanced curriculum and an environment that nurtures their intellect and feeds their souls, developing all who choose to learn at the institution into the next generation of leaders and agents of positive change. Blessed with a mission to promote a more just and humane society, Xavier is leading the way to a brighter future for all. For more information about Xavier University of Louisiana, visit XULA.edu or contact the University Communications at (504) 520-5162 or XULANews@XULA.edu.
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Media Contact: Georgetown University Office of Communications, media@georgetown.edu
Melissa Newell, Xavier University of Louisiana, XULANews@XULA.edu