Dr. LAFRANCIS Rodgers Rose was more than a Force. Her regal presence sent a clear message that you were encountering one of God’s Chosen Vessels. Dr. LAFRANCIS’ bio tells only a snippet of her story and impact on the world. My first encounter with her was through her scholarship and renowned book on Black Women in America. When I moved to Norfolk, I saw a radiant woman dressed in African garb at a community meeting so I walked over to meet her. I asked her name and she said, I’m Dr. LAFRANCIS Rodgers Rose, I said – on my goodness!!! – I’ve read your book and use it in my class. She smiled at me broadly and we hugged spontaneously – then she put me to work. Dr LAFRANCIS invited me to dinner to assess how my skilset would be best utilized. Next, she said you’ll speak at the International Black Women Congress Annual Conference (on my Hurricane Katrina project) and she was instrumental in me teaching at a local college. Our relationship was solidified and she told me that I have to speak up more outside of the classroom.

Dr. LAFRANCIS would want all of us to keep going and like her daughter said and sang at the homegoing celebration: STAND!!!  We will miss you so much Dr. LAFRANCIS. I pledge to keep fighting and teaching students the truth about justice and freedom for all. Thank you so much – we will love you forever – Ashay –
Ancestor Dr. LAFRANCIS RODGERS ROSE ❤