Black History

Passes At Age 88: Dr. La Francis Rodgers-Rose

Norfolk-born Dr. La Francis Rodgers-Rose, founder of the International Congress of Black Women, passed away on November 10 at age 88. A lifelong advocate for justice and equality, her work empowered Black women globally and fostered health awareness, including her advocacy for organ donation.

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NORFOLK

Norfolk native Dr. La Francis Rodgers-Rose transitioned on Sunday November 10, according to her family members. The scholarly founder of the International Congress of Black Women in 1983, was 88-years-old.

Rodgers-Rose, formally educated as a sociologist, spent her life advocating for justice and equality, especially for Black women. The mission of the IBWC, a nonprofit organization she founded in Newark, N.J., is to promote social, political and economic empowerment in a global community of Black women.

She had more than 30 years of college teaching experience; she taught African-American Studies at Princeton University for 16 years, and also taught at Case Western Reserve University, Rutgers University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Drew University.

Rodgers-Rose, a heart transplant recipient for over 20 years, was also a passionate advocate for health and organ donation in the African-American community.

Final arrangements were not available at press time.