The Xavier community is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of our esteemed alumni, The Honorable Alexis Herman (’69). 

Making history as the first African American to serve as U.S. Secretary of Labor, she was a class act who put service, leadership, and values at the top of her to-do list. Upholding Xavier’s mission of creating a more just and humane society, Herman started her career in social work, then took off in the public policy space shortly after graduating from Xavier with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. 

“Secretary Herman, a principled public servant and dedicated business leader, exemplified a life of compassion, service, commitment, and integrity,” said Xavier President Reynold Verret. “A faithful friend, beloved family member, and unwavering Xavierite, her life and labor illustrated Xavier’s mission. She paved the way for a more just and humane society, setting a phenomenal example for the university community. We are truly grateful for her time among us. She touched many and will be missed much.” 

Herman’s early career championed employment improvement opportunities for African Americans and women. She joined President Jimmy Carter’s administration in 1977 as Director of the Labor Department’s Women’s Bureau when she was 29 years old, making history as the youngest person to hold that position. She departed from the role at the end of Carter’s presidency in 1981. 

Following the Carter administration, Herman founded a consulting firm that led her to working with the Rev. Jesse Jackson on his 1984 and 1988 presidential bids. This work opened the door for becoming Chief of Staff to the Democratic National Committee (DNC) chairman. In 1992, she served as Vice Chair of the DNC. After Bill Clinton won the presidential election, Herman began working in the White House in various roles, including Assistant to the President and Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement. She was eventually appointed as the 23rd U.S. Secretary of Labor, a position she held from 1997 to 2001. According to NPR, during Herman’s tenure as Labor Secretary, unemployment reached a 30-year low. 

Herman held more than 30 honorary doctorate degrees, including a Doctor of Humane Letters from Xavier during the 1994 commencement ceremony for which she served as speaker. She remained a loyal daughter of Xavier throughout her lifetime. In what one might consider among her most honorable and endearing acts as Xavierite, Herman assisted university senior leadership in securing funds to ensure that her dear alma mater would return to its glory following the incredible devastation of Hurricane

Katrina in 2005. A dedicated alumna who provided her time, talent, and treasures to Xavier, Herman’s spirit is immensely treasured, and her presence will be sorely missed.

The Alexis Herman ’69 Memorial Fund has been established to honor her memory at her beloved Alma Mater. Your memorial gift will support deserving students and address critical needs of the University. https://bit.ly/AlexisHermanMemorial