Yesterday, Notre Dame alum Ken Koehler posed the question in his Viewpoint letter, are the core values gone at Notre Dame? I, despite having read Mr. Koehler's letter, would like to answer emphatically, no. I cannot understand how anyone with a familiarity with our school's current student body could argue that President Obama speaking at our graduation stands as further proof that the core values have left Notre Dame.
Each semester and during the summers, thousands of students participate in various community service clubs and activities. Every Sunday, students pack masses in all 28 residence halls, celebrating the Holy Eucharist with one another and strengthening the bonds of fellowship. In the classrooms, Notre Dame students and professors continue to exceed expectations, building upon our reputation of a world-class University where young men and women grow academically and spiritually.
I feel bad that Mr. Koehler disagrees with President Obama speaking at graduation this year, on top of Notre Dame students "tearing up" Mr. Koehler's luxury condo community.
To Mr. Koehler and the many other alumni who have written to declare they no longer wish to be members of the Notre Dame community due to the "totally stupid" decision to have the President of the United States speak at this year's graduation, I am extremely sorry. The core values of the University remain as strong as ever, as shown every day by the current student body. I can't imagine what would make you want to cut ties with our great University, of which I, like countless others, remain extremely proud.
Patrick Mulligan
junior
Morrissey Hall
April 22
