2003 Peoples Health Champions

At age 71, Dr. Norman Francis led Xavier University to a record enrollment of over 4,000 students, more than doubling its size in under 20 years.

At age 84, Harold Meynier mobilized New Orleans businesses to donate clothing and supplies to victims of the Oklahoma City bombing.

At age 80, Jack Fisher completed 64 commercial real estate transactions in one year—more than any other agent in metro New Orleans.

At age 69, Ida Saik launched the Adopt A Cop program to strengthen community ties and support local law enforcement in Jefferson Parish.

At age 65, Edward “Kidd” Jordan brought student musicians from his jazz camp to perform live on NBC’s Today Show, inspiring thousands through music education.

At age 74, Shirley Tross-Jones hosted a Pre-Thanksgiving Luncheon that fed 700 homebound and elderly individuals—nearly double the previous year’s total.

At age 80, Alicia Davis joined a University of New Orleans initiative to help adults return to college and pursue higher education.

At age 81, Lindy Boggs completed her term as the first woman U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican, capping a career filled with historic firsts.

At age 73, Edwin Hampton led the St. Augustine High School “Marching 100” in the Tournament of Roses Parade—the first New Orleans band to do so.

At age 78, Lorraine Taix McCaslin won eight medals—including six golds—at the Greater New Orleans Senior Olympics, setting a personal best in the long jump.