Dear Father Jenkins:
Thank you for finally standing up and taking responsibility on behalf of Notre Dame for the tragic death of Declan Sullivan.
The sad truth remains, however, that the "official" acceptance of responsibility by the University took nine days. Nine days.
I am shocked and disappointed that Notre Dame would delay such action, no doubt in an attempt to first quantify and manage its liability. As an attorney, I can appreciate the legal ramifications of an apology and acceptance of blame by the University, but Notre Dame is not just another secular institution whose first priority is securing its financial well being. The University of Notre Dame embodies the teachings of Christ. Declan and his parents deserved better from her. Perhaps in the future, University leadership will admit fault with the same grace displayed by the Sullivan family in accepting their unnecessary and senseless loss.
Sincerely,
Shannon Crombie
alumna
Class of 1997
Nov. 6
