NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University’s Centennial Homecoming weekend is underway, but some members of the Xavier community say this year’s celebration feels bittersweet.

Just days before alumni began returning to campus, the university confirmed it had laid off 46 full-time employees, about six percent of its workforce, in what leaders called a “difficult but necessary” decision to stabilize finances.

A university spokesperson said the move followed a “careful review of operations” to ensure the school’s long-term financial health, continued support of students, and commitment to its mission.

Xavier also cited nationwide financial pressures on higher education, including federal funding cuts and new student-loan limits, as key factors behind the reductions.

“How just and humane was it to ju

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