Catholic Identity
Historical
The University of Notre Dame was founded by Reverend Edward Sorin in 1842 and his companion Brothers of St. Joseph, later the Brothers of the Holy Cross. Father Sorin’s vision of a great American Catholic institution has inspired the University’s development throughout its 162 years. As the University’s physical plant has expanded, the place has remained anchored to Catholicism in physical space. Every residence hall houses its own chapel. A crucifix is hung in nearly every room on campus. The Grotto provides sacred space to pray. The cross atop the Basilica of the Sacred Heart reaches into the sky, the highest of any point on campus.
Universal
As a Catholic University, Notre Dame seeks to contribute to scholarship and research while forming leaders who will use their knowledge for the greater good of humanity. The word “Catholic” means “Universal.” This definition provides the foundation for an institution that embraces diversity of belief and identity while celebrating Catholic faith across campus: in chapels and in classrooms, in intellectual discourse and in meditative prayer.
Proportional
The large majority of undergraduate students at the University are Roman Catholic, although Catholic applicants receive no special consideration due to their religious beliefs. The University also maintains a significant proportion of Catholic faculty but recruits scholars of all backgrounds and affiliations in keeping with the University’s aim to pursue truth in the context of faith.
