Passing of Juan Franco

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Chancellor Green statement on the death of Juan Franco

On Aug. 2, 2017, Nebraska Chancellor Ronnie Green issued the following communication to faculty, staff and students regarding the death of former Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Juan N. Franco.

To our collective University of Nebraska-Lincoln family:

I am deeply saddened to inform you that our dear friend, student champion, and valued colleague Juan Franco passed away yesterday in Houston, Texas. Dr. Franco served admirably for more than a decade as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s vice chancellor for student affairs. He very recently returned to the faculty in our College of Education and Human Sciences.

Juan was well-loved by legions of students for his dedication to work that spurred their success. He and his team worked diligently to inspire students to achieve their potential, leading many initiatives throughout the years, including Franco’s List, which regularly recognizes students who demonstrate integrity, citizenship, open-mindedness and respect. He was a strong advocate for student leadership and was a mentor for many members of the Association of Students of the University of Nebraska. Juan’s tenure saw many significant improvements across campus, including the establishment of the Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center, several new residence halls, upgraded campus recreation facilities, and a remodel of the Nebraska Union.

Thanks to Juan’s vision, collaborative spirit and optimism, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is becoming distinctively known as a student-centered institution. He truly earned and is well-deserving of the respect, admiration and deep, genuine affection felt by all of us who had the privilege of knowing Juan. Please support Elisa and all of Juan’s family in your thoughts and prayers as they celebrate his life and mourn his passing, and let’s continue his legacy with renewed vigor placed on inspiring success of all Nebraska students.

Ronnie D. Green, Ph. D. Chancellor

Date Issued

Wednesday, August 2, 2017 - 13:00