Xavier’s national rankings highlight student success
By Cameron Speed, Contributor
October 16, 2026
(Photo courtesy of XULA Athletics)
Xavier University of Louisiana was ranked No. 8 among historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) for long-term career success by LinkedIn and No. 4 among private HBCUs by Forbes in 2026.
The LinkedIn ranking considers areas such as job placement, internships, career success and the strength of a school’s professional network. For Xavier students, the rankings can mean more than seeing the university’s name on a national list. They can also show how well the university is preparing students for life after graduation.
(Photo courtesy of Sydney Gadsen.)
Glenn A. Caston, deputy chief inclusion officer in the Division of Student Affairs and head cheerleading coach in the Department of Athletics, said Xavier’s focus on academics, mentorship and student success has contributed to its recognition.
“Being one of the top 10 HBCUs for long-term career success is amazing,” Caston said. “We put a lot of effort into mentorship. We want our students to succeed.”
Xavier moved up one spot from No. 9 in LinkedIn’s 2025 rankings and was the only Louisiana university among the top 10 HBCUs in 2026. LinkedIn’s rankings examine how graduates perform in the workforce, considering factors such as job placement, internships, career advancement and professional networks. Unlike traditional college rankings, LinkedIn focuses on graduates’ career outcomes rather than institutional prestige.
Forbes also recognized Xavier in its inaugural HBCU rankings, placing the university fourth among private HBCUs, behind Howard University, Spelman College and Morehouse College. The rankings considered graduation rates, alumni earnings, student debt and other measures of student success. According to Forbes, Xavier graduates earned a median early-career salary of $56,700 and a median midcareer salary of $104,100.
Caston said that same focus applies to student-athletes.
(Photo courtesy of Xula Athletics)
“Yes, we love to win, but the kids’ number one goal is to get their academics,” Caston said. “We want to graduate lawyers, doctors and pharmacists. That is our ultimate goal. Academics always come first.”
Students also said their experiences at Xavier reflect some of the success shown in the rankings.
Kelsea Allen, a senior public health major from Atlanta, said Xavier has helped her develop both inside and outside the classroom.
“As a senior and a cheerleader at Xavier, I do feel like my experience reflects that Xavier has helped me grow academically, personally and as a leader,” Allen said. “Being a student-athlete has taught me discipline, teamwork, time management and how to balance different responsibilities.”
Allen said the experiences and connections she has made at Xavier have helped prepare her for her future career.
Sydney Gaston, a biology pre-med major from Houston, also agreed with Xavier’s ranking but said students must take the initiative to make the most of the opportunities available.
“The classes are rigorous, with little wiggle room to fall behind, while also providing numerous resources to help students succeed,” Gaston said. “However, those opportunities are not forced upon you; rather, you must seek them out yourself, which teaches you self-advocacy, self-discipline and a strong work ethic.”
