Xavierites,

We grieve the loss of the great Hank Aaron, whose commitment to ensuring the education and elevation of students in need memorialize him beyond his athletic achievements.

Hank Aaron was one of the greatest baseball players of all time and was crowned the new “Sultan of Swat” after breaking Babe Ruth’s homerun record in 1974. Many of his records remain unbroken.

He will be remembered for his philanthropic efforts as much as his athletic prowess. He compassionately dedicated himself to providing hope and opportunity to deserving students who dream of earning a college degree through his own actions and investments.

Xavier is blessed to currently have seven Hank Aaron Chasing the Dream Foundation Scholars working toward achieving their goal of a Xavier degree. Along with his wife, he also supported the Xavier University of Louisiana Atlanta Alumni Chapter and offered assistance in the building of the St. Katharine Drexel Chapel. His generosity to the Xavier community and our sibling HBCUs will not be forgotten.

Hank was a remarkable man, who sought a more just and humane society for those facing disadvantages. Having faced vicious racism, he was aware of the obstacles facing young students of color, and he made it his mission to build a foundation from which they could move forward.

With deepest condolences to the Aaron family,

Reynold Verret

President

Xavier University of Louisiana