TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - John L. Blackburn, a University of Alabama administrator credited with bringing groups together to desegregate the school in 1963, died Friday. He was 84.

Blackburn died after complications from cancer, University spokeswoman Cathy Andreen said Monday.

Family friend and former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said Blackburn was "a giant in the lives of many."

Blackburn became the assistant dean of men in 1956 and went on to serve as dean of men, dean for student development and vice president for educational development.

He is credited with playing a central role in the school's desegregation by working with student leaders, faculty and fellow administrators to assure the enrollment of Vivian Malone and James Hood on June 11, 1963.

The University of Alabama established the Blackburn Institute in his honor in 1995 and the leadership development program links state leaders in business and public service with outstanding UA students and Blackburn fellows.

Rice said Blackburn was one of her father's closest friends and mentors.