Courtesy Xavier University of Louisiana Archives By Tevon Blair ·Updated February 4, 2026 /> Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…

The early 20th century marks the inception of Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s Black History Month, with Xavier University of Louisiana, the nation’s only Catholic Historically Black College or University (HBCU), being a key contributor to the national holiday’s 100 year archive. 

Just one year before the collective celebration of Black history, the institution, most credited as a national leader in producing healthcare professionals, was founded.  

Since 1926, Black History Month, then recognized as ‘Negro History Week,’ has been an opportunity for African American heritage, culture and success to be celebrated. The century-long holiday is a yearly reminder of what has been attained since the freedom of all enslaved African Americans within the United States. 

The founder of Xavier University, Saint Katharine Drexel, and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, created a >St. Katharine Drexel Preparatory. 

“It is important that the talent flowing from the descendants of the enslaved in shaping America be recognized and honored,” said University President Dr. Reynold Verret. “Black history is American history — and the connection to Xavier’s history is that institutions like ours are