The University of Notre Dame was once one of the most prestigious Catholic universities in the country. Over recent decades, however, their connection to Catholic teaching and values has deteriorated to the point that even calling it a Catholic institution no longer seems appropriate.
The University itself seems to agree with that assessment, as evidenced by the announcement that it will no longer require staff to support the school’s ‘Catholic mission.’
The Observer, the school’s student-run newspaper, reports that a new set of “ND Values” was unveiled by the vice president of human resources, Heather Christophersen, during town hall meetings with staff in October,
The previous list included a value that called for staff acceptance and support of the University’s Catholic mission, which was absent in the new list.
These organizational principles are geared towards the University’s roughly 4,500 staff members, such as those working in administration, communications, facilities, dining services, financial management and residential life, among other areas. They do not generally apply to faculty.
A press release from the University shared the new set of values:
- Community: Treat every person with dignity and respect.
- Collaboration: Work together with honesty, kindness, and humility.
- Excellence: Pursue the highest standards with a commitment to truth and service.
- Innovation: Embrace opportunities with creativity and dedication.
The five former values (emphasis added) were:
- Accountability: Takes responsibility and ownership for decisions, actions and results. Accountable for both how and what is accomplished
- Teamwork: Works Cooperatively as a member of a team and is committed to the overall team objectives rather than own interests
- Integrity: Demonstrates honest and ethical behavior that displays a high moral standard. Widely trusted, respectful and honorable
- Leadership in Excellence: Demonstrates energy and commitment to improving results, takes initiatives often involving calculated risks while considering the common good
- Leadership in Mission: Understands, accepts and supports the Catholic mission of the university and fosters values consistent with that mission.
Notre Dame has faced repeated criticism for its decades-long drift from traditional Catholic beliefs.
The Gatewa Pundit reported that a professor came under fire for offering help to students seeking abortions. If you disagree with her views on abortion, she has deemed you part of a white nationalist Catholic hate group.
Professor Tamara Kay allegedly had a sign hanging on her University office door, which has since been removed, reading, “This is a SAFE SPACE to get help and information on ALL Healthcare issues and access — confidentially with care and compassion.”
Kay also seemingly refers to the pro-life movement, which includes students, professors, and alumni of the university, as wacky, dumb, and bigoted for having views that align with the religious values and teachings upon which their institution is based.
The University has also repeatedly invited pro-abortion speakers on campus for various events, including commencements. Vociferous supporters of abortion who have spoken at Notre Dame include Mario Cuomo, Daniel Patrick Moynihan, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden.
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