Dear Students:
With the beginning of a new academic year, I extend a warm welcome to all new and returning students of the University of Notre Dame. In particular, I wish to congratulate and welcome our freshmen and transfer students. We are excited and grateful that you are here, and it is our intention to help you achieve all of your goals and ambitions.
Over the course of your time at Notre Dame, I encourage you to make the most of each moment. Be open to engaging new friends, those who may have very similar or very different personal stories and perspectives. Embrace each classroom experience as an opportunity to expand your knowledge, hone your talents and share your ideas. If you live in a residence hall, explore the multiple ways that you can contribute as a leader. When you face challenge, know that you are not alone and do not hesitate to seek support from those around you. Finally, in all that you do, take a few moments each day for personal reflection to refresh your spirit.
One of the primary objectives of Notre Dame, as a Catholic university, is to develop young minds that are prepared to make positive contributions to the world and help solve society's challenges. We are confident that you possess the talent and desire to make meaningful and lasting contributions to the university community and to the world.
Once again, welcome to Notre Dame. May you soon come to feel at home on campus, and to love this place, as do so many graduates of past years. I hope to meet you in person over the course of your time, and throughout that time, I will keep you in my prayers.
In Notre Dame,
Fr. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C.
University president
Aug. 19
