Xavier University of Louisiana is nationally known for its unique history and mission and its unmatched results specifically in the sciences where Xavier ranks 1st in the number of African American students earning bachelor's degrees in the biological/life sciences as well as in the physical sciences. In addition, this Black and Catholic university ranks 1st nationally in placing African American students into medical schools and is a top producer of African American pharmacists, an honor it has enjoyed for over eight decades. While Xavier excels in the sciences it also shines in the liberal arts with many students opting to specialize in Business, Mass Communications,Education and Computer Science. With all of its academic success Xavier has been lead for over 40 years by president, Dr. Norman C. Francis and continues to adhere to its mission to continue to contribute to the promotion of a more just and humane society.