Chancellor Issues Statement on the Passing of Governor Blanco

Governor Kathleen Blanco address the crowd at the reopening of Interim LSU Hospital in 2006

Governor Kathleen Blanco making remarks at the ceremony opening the Interim LSU Hospital on November 20, 2006. She said, "There's a very simple reason that I believe that LSU and this hospital will prosper into the future. It's because the doctors, the nurses and the staff of the Health Sciences Center and the Medical School are truly some of the finest people in the world. You are the heroes of Hurricane Katrina."

Upon learning that Governor Blanco had passed away due to complications from a rare eye cancer, LSU Health New Orleans Chancellor Larry Hollier, MD, released the following statement:

“We were saddened to learn of the passing of Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco. "She played such a crucial role in keeping health care and health education in Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina. Under her leadership, the schools of LSU Health New Orleans were able to quickly resume classes in Baton Rouge, ensuring an uninterrupted supply of health care professionals for Louisiana, and LSU Health faculty were able to continue caring for patients right here in the state. With unwavering support for our mission and the patients we serve, she led the recovery of our public hospitals. The legacy of Louisiana’s first female governor will live on in the countless people whose lives were touched by her selfless and distinguished service.”

Related

Video with Governor Blanco shown during the Commencement Ceremony of LSU Health New Orleans' Katrina Class: