That’s why NDHR is pleased to introduce the new Summer Camp Directory, a comprehensive, easy-to-use tool designed to help Notre Dame families create meaningful, engaging summers for their children in 2026.

The impact of summer camp can last far beyond a few warm-weather months. From theater and tennis to faith formation and science exploration, camps provide opportunities for children to stretch themselves in ways that classrooms sometimes can’t.

Gabriela González, Assistant Director of Research & Special Projects at the Institute for Social Concerns and mother of five, shared how transformative a single summer can be:

“Between the exciting field trips and the positive social environment, the impact of these camps is clear. My middle child found her voice through acting, moving from nerves to a solo, while my oldest gained a stronger sense of purpose and faith. Seeing that level of development in one summer was truly amazing.”

The variety of experiences—academic, artistic, athletic, and faith-based—highlights what summer camp can offer: growth across every dimension of a child’s life.

Another parent, Jessica Piser, who serves as Financial Program Manager in Notre Dame Research, echoed this sentiment after her child participated in camps from the 2025 ND Camp Expo:

“These camps helped give my son a well-rounded, fun, and active summer. He was able to meet new friends and be creative in his theater and art camps. He got to explore a new sport in tennis. And he gained new independence by going to Camp Eberhart for 2 weeks of sleep away camp.”

She also emphasized the value of centralized information for working families:

“Being able to access this camp information allowed our family to plan our summer well in advance… My husband and I work full time during the summer, so having a camp that our son looked forward to going to was a win-win situation and we were so thankful to have [NDHR] aggregate all this information that would have taken hours of self-research.”

While summer camps enrich children’s lives, they also provide vital support for employee families balancing full-time work and caregiving responsibilities.

As González shared:

“Despite the occasional scheduling juggle, the quality of these camps is a huge lifesaver for working parents. From academics to the arts, the creative outlets provided here make all the difference in our children's development.”

To make summer planning even easier, NDHR has launched the enhanced Summer Camp Directory for Summer 2026.

The directory features two convenient views:

• Camp Directory View – Browse the complete list of available camps.

• Find a Camp View – Search based on your child’s age, camp theme, or the week(s) the camp is offered.

Whether your child is interested in STEM, performing arts, athletics, outdoor adventure, or faith-based programming, the directory helps you quickly identify options that align with their interests and your family’s schedule.

In addition to the directory, employees can use the Family Planner to organize schedules for the entire summer. When you open the planner, you’ll be prompted to make a copy, which you can then customize to fit your family’s needs.

Summer has a remarkable way of shaping children, building confidence, creativity, independence, and lifelong memories. With the new NDHR Summer Camp Directory, planning a meaningful and manageable summer is easier than ever.

Have questions? Contact NDHR via the Self-Service Center.

Important Notes

• All information is provided directly by the camps.

• Some camps may appear multiple times to reflect different ages, times, or pricing options.

• Not all camps are full-day or full-week programs.

• Families should verify all camp details directly with the camp provider.

• Additional camps will be added throughout the coming months as information becomes available.

If you know of a camp that should be included, NDHR invites you to submit it through the Suggest a Camp form.

Please take the opportunity to recognize excellence by nominating an exempt or non-exempt staff member who exemplifies our values for the following awards:

The Presidential Catholic Mission Award: honors staff who are a force for good. These award recipients help to advance Notre Dame's mission to be the leading global Catholic research university.

The Presidential Community Award: honors staff who consistently treat everyone with dignity and respect. Award recipients build positive and inclusive environments, fostering a sense of belonging for everyone with whom they interact. They go out of their way to support and uplift their colleagues.

The Presidential Collaboration Award: honors staff who embody the power of teamwork. These bridge builders work with honesty, kindness, and humility to achieve shared goals. They excel at open communication, celebrate the accomplishments of others, and are committed to the success of the team above their own.

The Presidential Excellence Award: honors staff who pursue the highest standards. Award recipients are committed to truth and service, consistently delivering exceptional, high-quality work. They are models of integrity, are skilled professionals, and inspire those around them to strive for excellence.

The Presidential Innovation Award: honors staff who inspire us all to think differently. These award recipients embrace opportunities with creativity and dedication, consistently exploring new approaches and turning innovative ideas into reality.

Any Notre Dame faculty or staff member may submit a nomination by February 24. To learn more about the awards, please visit the NDHR website.

Originally published by NDWorks at ndworks.nd.edu on January 26, 2026.

During his 90-day immersive training last fall , McFarland participated in a hands-on learning model focused on developing a deep understanding of university facilities operations while applying his extensive project management, systems engineering, and leadership expertise to real-world initiatives.

From his first interaction with Notre Dame, Devin felt an immediate sense of connection with the University’s mission and values. “From my first contact with the University of Notre Dame, the institution demonstrated a thoughtful, well-structured approach to supporting service members during this transition,” he shared. “I immediately felt aligned with an organization whose values of service, excellence, and community closely mirror those of the military.”

McFarland brought to the program a rare blend of strategic insight and tactical execution. His ability to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and build rapport across departments made a significant impact. Though initially uncertain how his military experience would translate to a university setting, that question was answered almost immediately. “From day one, the maintenance department welcomed me as a teammate,” he noted, “creating an environment where military experience translated into real, measurable operational impact.”

This DoD-funded program allows transitioning service members to gain tailored, civilian workforce training at no cost to the University, while also enabling departments to proactively shape talent pipelines. While participation in SkillBridge does not guarantee employment at Notre Dame, it creates meaningful opportunities when institutional needs and timing align. In McFarland’s case, the experience exceeded expectations and ultimately led to continued service at the University. “My experience with the University’s SkillBridge program reinforced my confidence that the skills developed through military service can translate into lasting value within a mission-driven organization like Notre Dame,” he shared.

McFarland’s success as Notre Dame’s first SkillBridge intern sets a strong foundation for future partnerships between the University and our nation’s military leaders as they explore the next chapter of their careers. Reflecting on the experience, his supervisor Chip Farrell shared, “We could not be happier with our experience working with Devin. His US Army background in data analytics was the perfect fit for our team, as we were looking to restructure our work order metrics data collection and analysis. He hit the ground running and exceeded all expectations, building data analysis platforms that we will continue to use to strengthen and improve our maintenance operations.

Originally published by NDWorks at ndworks.nd.edu on January 28, 2026.

It’s a shift many staff members have been asking for. With no overall ratings and a greater emphasis on dialogue, the new pilot process is designed to make feedback more natural, more supportive, and more effective. And while end of year performance discussions may feel far away, building strong feedback habits now will make spring conversations easier and more meaningful.

To support this culture change, NDHR is expanding training opportunities across three key programs:

Better Conversations Every Day (BCE)

This foundational workshop gives individual contributors and people leaders the skills to communicate with clarity, curiosity, and empathy. These skills build the trust required for honest feedback. Participants learn to break down silos, address issues openly, and spark meaningful connections across teams.

Feedback That Works

Building on concepts introduced in BCE, this course takes a deep dive into the Center for Creative Leadership’s SBI™ model (Situation–Behavior–Impact), helping people leaders deliver clear, constructive feedback with confidence. The workshop also emphasizes receiving feedback well, an essential skill as the performance pilot prioritizes two-way dialogue.

Feedback Practice Lab: A New Hands-On Experience

Based on research and early testing, NDHR designed the new Feedback Practice Lab as a high-impact, low-risk place to practice feedback in real time. Instead of lengthy instruction, participants dive directly into coaching circles and scenario-based conversations. The aim is simple: help people get more comfortable doing feedback, not just learning about it.

The Lab draws on scenarios that mirror real issues across campus, from coaching a strong performer who is disengaged, to navigating defensiveness. Participants not only give feedback, but practice receiving it, too, building the openness and psychological safety the new pilot seeks to cultivate.

While the Lab is still new, early reactions have been enthusiastic:

“Hearing from others how they would handle various scenarios was the most valuable part of the workshop. Lots of great ideas.”

—Michelle Savoie, Personnel Specialist for the Hesburgh Libraries

“In sessions like these, the scenarios often feel very hypothetical. In this case, every one of them felt like something we've all experienced. That made the discussion very easy and fruitful.”

—Brian Flaherty, Senior Director for Financial Operations and Administration.

These reflections mirror the goals of the pilot itself: feedback as an ongoing exchange, development as a shared responsibility; and communication as a daily commitment, not an annual event.

Individual contributors and people leaders can register for BCE and Feedback that Works, respectively, through the NDHR Learning & Organizational Development course catalog. If you are interested in having the Feedback Practice Lab as part of your next team or department meeting, let NDHR know here. You can also register individually for an upcoming open session while seats remain available. Whether you’re just beginning to build confidence with feedback or looking to deepen your fluency, there is a learning opportunity for you.

“Warm sad,” is how she described it.

The phrase may have been new for nearly everyone at the Oct. 28 Fall Beloved Community Gathering, but the concept was also immediately familiar.

“It is that cozy, comforting kind of sorrow where pain is wrapped in the gentle joy of remembrance,” said April Garcia, keynote speaker, who spoke of her maternal grandmother Momo. “The ache remains, but it glows. It is the crying emoji, but the one that is smiling.”

The theme for the gathering, sponsored by Notre Dame Human Resources and the Office of Belonging, Engagement, and Mission, was remembrance—in recognition of Día de los Muertos. The holiday presented a natural opportunity for faculty and staff to reflect on their upbringing and experiences while colleagues listened, learned, and discovered common values and themes. Prior to the event, participants submitted photos of their departed loved ones that were printed and displayed in frames at each table’s ofrenda, or altar, along with mementos connected to their lives.

“By constructing the ofrenda, families intentionally invite the spirit of the departed to join the living once again. It’s a heartfelt gesture that says: your love still matters here; your story still shapes us,” said Garcia. Of Momo, she recalled, “Her quiet actions always spoke volumes, shaping my identity in ways words never could. She had the most gentle laugh and sweet smile…and I would give anything for the chance to touch her soft hands right now.”

Each table was then invited to dive into its own conversation, guided by the following questions:

• Who are you remembering today, and what are some of the ways this person loved you into being?

• What did you call them—any nicknames or terms of endearment?

• If you were to describe their character or spirit, what words come to mind?

• What was their laughter like or their way of bringing joy into a room?

• Is there a story that captures who they were for you?

• What gifts or lessons from them do you still carry in your life today?

As stories were shared, tears and laughter permeated the room. Some had lost parents this year; some more than a decade ago. Others detailed the impact of a lifelong friend or beloved pet. Table mates leaned in closer to take in what was being said, searched their bags for tissues to pass around, and consoled those who needed extra support.

They embraced the “warm sad” feelings, and out of the individual grief and gratitude emerged a collective empathy and understanding. By connecting with their memories, faculty and staff were able to form stronger connections with one another.

“I didn’t want to come at first. I didn’t want to remember,” said Jenipher Akuku Huisman, enrollment program director at the Graduate School. “But I’m glad I did.”

Originally published by Cidni Sanders at beam.nd.edu on November 10, 2025.

Take 30 minutes twice a week to invest in your own well-being.
In partnership with the Notre Dame Wellness Center and NDHR, we are offering an 8-session virtual Self-Care Series designed to help you strengthen your resilience, manage stress, and create lasting self-care habits.

Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s how we sustain our energy, compassion, and effectiveness. Each 30-minute webinar focuses on practical tools and real-life strategies to help you care for your mental, emotional, and physical health.

After the series, you can find all of the recordings here.

Series Schedule

November 12 – Adopt a Self-Care Mindset
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Discover what self-care truly means, how to distinguish it from distractions, and create your own personalized self-care plan.
Recording

November 14 – Self-Care & Self-Compassion: Two Keys to Well-Being
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Learn how speaking to yourself with kindness builds resilience and prevents burnout. Includes a guided compassion exercise.
Recording

November 19 – Prioritizing Sleep as an Act of Self-Care
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Explore the link between rest and well-being, and learn simple strategies to improve your sleep quality.
Recording

November 21 – Managing Energy, Not Time
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Understand your natural energy rhythms and how to restore balance across your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs.
Zoom Link: https://notredame.zoom.us/j/94129863431?pwd=52YSFnzTUIwdDcOgEO5W8JIaaQyDLp.1

December 3 – Your Non-Negotiables: Supporting Work-Life Integration
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Identify your boundaries, habits, and routines that protect your well-being and how to communicate and uphold them.
Zoom Link: https://notredame.zoom.us/j/94916713155?pwd=dugletrYKZ7YiH2pTTDaCRs5EagIwG.1

December 5 – Burnout
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Recognize the signs of burnout versus stress and take small, practical steps toward recovery and prevention.
Zoom Link: https://notredame.zoom.us/j/99620567283?pwd=3r9Gumy08PBl4n9QqaK7LQbYjaNAba.1

December 10 – Imposter Syndrome
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Examine the roots of self-doubt, perfectionism, and overcompensation and learn strategies to navigate imposter feelings with confidence.
Zoom Link: https://notredame.zoom.us/j/99831478691?pwd=5HZG3Ar88ttg3HzJ7RDcon66sVMWg0.1

December 12 – Self-Care Retreat
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
A restorative session to pause, reset, and practice relaxation techniques that calm the mind and body.
Zoom Link: https://notredame.zoom.us/j/92722099423?pwd=wbgOkgJJcfNTdFXOpD0iEUoBHfzSnV.1

Finding quality childcare is one of the biggest challenges facing working families, and Notre Dame rose to meet that need. Partnering with KinderCare—the nation’s largest childcare and early education provider—a cross-functional team from NDHR, Finance, Facilities Design and Operations, and the Office of General Counsel made a new on-site childcare center a reality for University faculty, staff, and students with children as young as 6 weeks old. Located near White Field and the Family Resource Center, the facility offers a convenient, high-quality resource that supports the Notre Dame community and its families.

Through months of collaboration, strategic planning, and unwavering dedication, the team successfully opened the KinderCare center on schedule in August. The new facility not only provides a safe, enriching environment for young children, but also demonstrates Notre Dame’s commitment to the well-being of families. For members’ vision, teamwork, and lasting impact on the campus community, we proudly honor the KinderCare team as recipients of the Presidential Team Irish Award.

Originally published by NDWorks at ndworks.nd.edu on September 15, 2025.

What do you like most about your job?

I love working with the collections. I love that I have a good blend of hands-on work as well as getting to work with people. We have amazing folks working on campus, and I get to work with all of our curators and archivists who actually know the details of the materials and what they are, where they come from, and why they’re important, so I get to share in some of that story. I can talk a lot about the physical side of the materials, but I don’t often know what they actually are or why they’re historically important. Our team here is really great to work with as well, too. We’re very collaborative.

I also get to see my work out in the library and visitors to campus get to see it, too. My job just has a lot of really nice elements that come together that make it fun. I get quiet work time, but I also get to be out there as well a little bit.

The biggest, most important thing that we do here is that we’re focused on making these collections accessible.

What makes you feel appreciated?

I love to see the collections being used, because then I feel useful. And I love to hear stories from our curators . . . or that a researcher is excited to be able to use this item that we’ve never been able to share before. For me, knowing that things I’m doing are actually helping people achieve their research goals is really satisfying.

What is an unexpected aspect of your job that people won’t get from your job title?

I probably do more paperwork than people imagine. I think folks think I’m at the bench 24/7, but there’s a lot of information that we need to capture. I do documentation and reporting for every object that comes into the lab, and that’s to make sure that I am capturing everything about that object before I treat it so that we always have a record of what it was like and what additions I’m making to it. This is really important so that researchers down the road are aware of any changes I’ve made to the original object through the course of treatment . . . it takes a lot of time with photography and narrative reports to capture that information.

[Another aspect is] negotiating all of these things with curators and making sure that I understand what their goals are for the object. I’m definitely not making those decisions by myself in a vacuum, so there’s a lot more complexity than just coming in and sitting down and doing the treatment. There’s a lot more collaboration that goes in before we get to that point. 

What do you like most about working at Notre Dame?

I definitely love being on a college campus environment. There’s so much activity going on, it’s a great place for anybody who has curiosity . . . so many different people and perspectives just makes it exciting. There’s always something new that I can learn. I’ve worked for a couple of universities and I just think there’s such a good, positive can-do attitude on campus that I really appreciate.

What is something special you’ve worked on?

We have a number of a really interesting collections that are not paper based or book collections, which I find fascinating. Within our sports collection, one of my favorites is a 13-inch plastic Jackie Robinson doll with a Jackie Robinson comic book, which is super fun because it comes from a time period when materials were more ephemeral. Twentieth-century materials are generally not the same quality as medieval materials, which have clearly lasted hundreds of years.

Something like the Jackie Robinson doll captures a moment in time, and we’re using this doll to teach different perspectives about this African American baseball player. We hope to encourage students and patrons to think about the times Robinson lived in, and then consider the contemporary impact of this type of mass-produced commercial object—a toy that kids played with—I think it’s so fascinating to think of objects in that way. I love some of the more modern things for that reason, because it’s close enough history that I can kind of understand a little bit of how different those perspectives were compared to the way we think about people today.

Originally published by Julia Wilson, Writer/Editor at ndworks.nd.edu on September 08, 2025.

Their work has built a foundational campus AI platform and established an AI Innovation Council, initiatives that will support responsible AI adoption for years to come. These efforts solidify Notre Dame’s position as a leader in both research and ethical technology use.

Thank you to the team members for their exceptional commitment to excellence, innovation, and service. Their leadership, both on campus and across higher education, truly embodies the spirit of the Presidential Team Irish Award.

Originally published by NDWorks at ndworks.nd.edu on September 08, 2025.

We recommend that attendees log in 5-10 minutes in advance of the session start time.

Week 1
9/15 | 2:00 PM | Alight
Alight Retiree Health Solutions

• Learn how Alight Retiree Health solutions can help you navigate Medicare
• Understand what to expect when you retire or age into Medicare
• Learn how to utilize your HRA

Registration Link: https://notredame.zoom.us/j/91041153833

9/18 | 10:00 AM | NDHR
ND Retirement Overview

NDHR will provide an overview of the retirement process, including:

• Retirement eligibility
• Retiree medical plan options
• University retirement benefits

Registration Link: https://notredame.zoom.us/j/95432211374

Week 2
9/22 | 2:00 PM | Fidelity
Medicare and How to Prepare for the Reality of Health Care in Retirement

This workshop will help you to understand the costs of health care in retirement, and how you
can prepare for them.

Zoom Meeting Link: https://fmr.zoom.us/j/98903353401?pwd=cs114Nbc4pfAPAQ84U1U7a5vzP5miV.1

9/25| 10:00 AM | Fidelity
Estate Planning-Preserving Your Savings for Future Generations

This workshop will help you learn more about estate planning and preserving your assets.

Zoom Meeting link: https://fmr.zoom.us/j/93705345059?pwd=g2s6Ky8jMxjGVsKAeu8fWtf3D70WHj.1

Week 3
9/29| 2:00 PM | Fidelity
Fundamentals of Retirement Income Planning

• Learn the benefits of a retirement income plan
• Identify retirement income sources and expenses
• Explore different retirement income strategies

Registration Link: https://fmr.zoom.us/j/94356087709?pwd=1btsAv319Ast7CLzXXHV8JRuPoovaa.1

10/2 | 10:00 AM | NDHR
ND Pension Overview
For non-exempt employees first hired before July 1, 2016, come to this session to:

• Learn more about your pension benefit.
• Understand when you’ll be eligible to commence a pension benefit
• Discover tools that can help you estimate the value of your pension benefit

Registration link: https://notredame.zoom.us/j/98063363700

Week 4
10/6 | 2:00 PM | NDHR
Faculty Retirement Transition Program Overview

This session provides an overview of the University of Notre Dame’s Faculty Retirement Transition Program (FRTP), a voluntary benefit for eligible faculty. We’ll cover how the program works, the support it provides, and the steps to participate as you plan your next chapter.

Eligibility:
To be eligible for the Faculty Retirement Transition Program (FRTP), the faculty member must be:

• Tenured at the University
• A regular faculty member with at least 10 years of continuous service
• Between the ages of 62 and 70 (inclusive) on the date of retirement

Zoom Meeting Link: https://notredame.zoom.us/j/93838020275

10/9 | 10:00 AM | Fidelity
Maximize Social Security in Your Retirement Strategy

• Learn how Social Security fits into your retirement paycheck
• Identify Social Security claiming strategies
• Create your retirement income plan

Zoom Meeting Link: https://fmr.zoom.us/j/92401086980?pwd=1uRoAPy8EBuMiwMDk0s8aZEdEJ8t9K.1

You can view recordings of the sessions when available, as well as view additional resources, here.

Escaping the heat, some of the center’s predicted 150-plus infant and toddler beneficiaries were present and able to explore their new learning and care space. The bright, colorful rooms welcomed families to interact with staff and see where their children will learn and play.

Amid a few babies fussing, and after parents secured some active crawlers, Executive Vice President Shannon Cullinan, John McGreevy, the Charles and Jill Fischer Provost, and Heather Christophersen, vice president for human resources, opened the program with remarks.

Building on the recommendations of a committee convened in 2020 to look at childcare assistance opportunities, the new center is part of a commitment from University leaders to support faculty, staff, students, and their families.

“One thing became clear early on: There was, in this region and at Notre Dame, a significant shortage of childcare in our area, especially for infants. So here we are today. This new center is more than a building. It represents a meaningful investment in our people . . . who are our greatest asset,” McGreevy said.

Adjacent to University housing for married and parenting students, this KinderCare facility provides a central location for on-campus parents. When the center opens later this month it will serve more than 100 families: 30 from University faculty, 53 from staff, and 22 from graduate and professional students. “That is a true cross-section of the Notre Dame family,” McGreevy said.

McGreevy believes that opening this facility will create a positive ripple effect for the community. “This is a proactive investment in family support services. It’s one of the many ways that Notre Dame is working to ensure that our faculty, staff, and students can thrive professionally, of course, but also personally. This investment is exactly the kind of work that our University strategic framework calls us to do.”

The center has 21 teachers on staff, including the resident chef, to care for children ranging from 6 weeks to 5 years old. Classrooms are divided into age-specific programs for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, with specialized activities designed to nurture developmental growth and personalize education.

Creating this space was not the only recent investment made by the University to support families, Cullinan added. “In addition to the construction of this facility, NDHR also doubled the adoption benefit for families and centralized websites for parenting resources.” Cullinan shared that the University also hired a full-time Family Services Consultant, Maureen Baska, to help staff navigate their family's caregiving needs and connect them with benefits and resources. Staff can schedule a consultation with Maureen at their convenience.

Cullinan emphasized the logistical feat of this construction, having broken ground in 2024 and completed on schedule for the 2025-26 academic year thanks to the collaborative effort between KinderCare and Notre Dame staff.

The new KinderCare facility is a tangible expression of the University's commitment to walk with community members, be they students or employees, in the moments that matter. This is another step in Notre Dame's mission to support families so that all can thrive, both personally and professionally.

Marlene DiPasquale, vice president of KinderCare for Employers, expressed her gratitude and excitement for the new facility. “Thank you for including us today in your celebration and kudos to you, University of Notre Dame. This is an outstanding step to take for your families, and I love the fact that you’re recognizing it’s for all members of your community.”

Rev. Gerry J. Olinger, C.S.C., vice president for student affairs, closed the program with a prayer and blessing of the facility. “I just want to speak on behalf of all of our students, especially our graduate, our professional students, our undergraduate students, and our parenting students, about how excited we are for this new facility, this new opportunity. It is such a blessing for us, and thank you to all those who have been involved in making this possible.”

KinderCare—the nation’s largest childcare and early education provider—has delivered expert early childhood education for more than 50 years and currently partners with several universities. The Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC) at Notre Dame and Saint Mary’s College will continue to operate on campus and work in collaboration with KinderCare.

More information on KinderCare and this facility.

Originally published by Julia Wilson, Writer/Editor at ndworks.nd.edu on August 12, 2025.

At its heart, this initiative isn’t just about simplifying the process, but rather fostering an environment where feedback flows freely, trust runs deep, and growth is intentionally cultivated.

The updated form, available now in Endeavor, is designed to encourage and normalize more frequent, meaningful conversations between employees and people leaders about what aspects of an employee’s work is going well, and where there is room to grow. Employees will have until May 31, 2026, to complete the process, though divisions may set their own internal timelines.

This launch follows a successful pilot last year with select units across campus. Feedback from those participants helped shape the updated process that’s now being introduced more broadly, including an emphasis on direct, ongoing discussions around performance.

"The new performance pilot framework led to more authentic and candid conversations within our team, not just about what we do, but also how we do it,” said Cassie Smith, director of graduate admissions in the Mendoza College of Business. “I'm grateful to work at a place that values not only the outcomes of our work, but also the way we collaborate and execute it."

Other updates include a simplified form, tailored to each employee’s career stream (non-exempt, exempt, or people leader), and greater flexibility when it comes to setting goals. Some divisions may choose to use OKRs, project tracking, or other metrics that best reflect their work.

“This is a major step forward in how we support our people,” said Heather Christophersen, vice president of NDHR. “Our goal isn’t just to hire great talent, but to develop the incredible people we already have here. We believe this process will have a meaningful impact across campus, and we’re excited to see how it continues to evolve.”

To help employees and people leaders navigate the new process, the Self Service Center offers a range of tools and support. A step-by-step guide to completing the form is now available. Over the course of the next year, training on giving and receiving feedback will become available to support productive and thoughtful conversations. NDHR is also inviting employees to submit feedback about their experience with the new process throughout the pilot year.

Ultimately, the streamlined process is about more than a form. It’s about building a culture of feedback, trust, and growth, one where people feel supported in doing their best work.

Originally published by NDHR at ndworks.nd.edu on August 11, 2025.

Faculty and staff are invited to savor the sweetness of summer at the upcoming Beloved Community Gathering: Joy, taking place from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, July 24, on the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center Terrace. In case of rain, the event will move indoors to the center lobby.

Hosted by the Office of Institutional Transformation in partnership with NDHR, this gathering offers a lighthearted opportunity to unwind and connect with colleagues across campus. Attendees can enjoy free ice cream, live music, and a welcoming space for relaxed conversation and spontaneous fun.

While previous Beloved Community Gatherings have centered on storytelling and reflection, this summer’s event embraces the theme of joy—celebrating the simple, everyday moments that help build a strong and inclusive campus culture.

“Joy is an essential part of building a beloved community, especially during times of change and uncertainty,” said Eve Kelly, executive director for institutional transformation and staff belonging. “Happiness is fleeting, but joy is deliberate and intentional. Let’s come together to share a laugh and delight in sweet treats and live music, as moments of lightness help strengthen the bonds between us.”

Beloved Community Gatherings are designed to foster belonging, deepen relationships, and celebrate the diverse voices that make up the Notre Dame community. Each event invites participants to engage in different ways—sometimes through meaningful dialogue, other times through joyful presence.

Registration is not required, but it is encouraged. Register here.

Originally published by NDHR at ndworks.nd.edu on July 08, 2025.

Notre Dame Law School is launching a new Veterans Law Clinic, dedicated to providing free legal assistance to U.S. military veterans in matters such as disability claims and appeals.

The clinic will begin operation in the fall of this year, and it will offer critical support to veterans while creating opportunities for law students to gain hands-on experience advocating for those who have served the nation.

"Our new Veterans Law Clinic is essential for two reasons: it provides students with the opportunity to apply what they're learning in the classroom to real-world cases, and it serves veterans who need help navigating the complexities of the disability benefits system,” said G. Marcus Cole, the Joseph A. Matson Dean and Professor of Law. “At Notre Dame Law School, we firmly believe that anyone who has served our country deserves the benefits they've earned, and as Notre Dame Lawyers, we have a special obligation to ensure veterans receive those benefits."

The Veterans Law Clinic will initially focus on helping veterans obtain disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), a process that requires proving both service connection and the severity of a veteran’s medical condition. The clinic will handle initial claims and appeals at all levels—from local regional offices to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals and the federal Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.

The new clinic will be led by Professor Caleb Stone, an experienced veterans’ lawyer and advocate, who will join Notre Dame Law School from William & Mary Law School on July 1.

Under his direction, the clinic will work closely with veterans to establish service connections for medical conditions and advocate for appropriate disability ratings from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

“This is about proving that a disability or a condition is somehow related to a veteran’s military service,” said Stone. “Once we’ve proved that a disability is service connected, we will advocate for the veteran to prove to the Department of Veterans Affairs how severe that disability or medical condition is.”

The clinic will operate on a pro bono basis, offering legal services typically unavailable for free, especially during the initial phases of the complex VA process, where legal representation for pay is often restricted. Initially, the clinic will focus on helping local and Indiana veterans—particularly underserved populations—while establishing relationships with VA medical centers and veterans service organizations.

"By offering these services free of charge, the clinic helps veterans avoid the costly fees associated with private legal counsel, providing life-changing support that can mean the difference between poverty and dignity," said Stone.

Notre Dame Law students will play a central role in the Veterans Law Clinic, leading individual cases from start to finish. They will conduct client interviews, legal research, document review, and brief writing, all under the guidance of licensed attorneys. In the clinic’s early stages, students will also help shape its direction, contributing to outreach and operational strategy.

The idea for the Veterans Law Clinic was originally sparked by two Notre Dame Law students, Garrett Hofmann and Mary Pat Peterson. Each had independently discussed the need for such a clinic with Professor Bob Jones, dean of experiential learning, and discovered that the Law School was already beginning to develop plans for a clinic to serve veterans. The students then connected, collaborated, and ultimately met with Dean Cole, helping to lay the foundation for what would become the Law School’s newest clinic.

Hofmann was also instrumental in organizing a symposium “What Do We Owe Our Veterans?” earlier this year, which explored many of the legal issues surrounding veterans and helped build momentum for the clinic’s creation.

Beyond casework, the clinic will engage in policy initiatives and community outreach, with a particular focus on the niche area of litigating pre-separation medical discharge cases—advocating for service members facing medical separation to be properly medically retired in order to receive their long-term benefits.

The new Veterans Law Clinic—Notre Dame Law School’s eighth clinic—provides students with the opportunity to serve veterans by offering direct legal services under the close supervision of a licensed attorney. This hands-on experience not only helps students develop essential legal skills through real-world practice, but it also reinforces Notre Dame Law School’s Catholic mission and its commitment to educating “a different kind of lawyer” dedicated to service, ethics, and social responsibility.

The Veterans Law Clinic also continues the University of Notre Dame’s enduring commitment to supporting those who have sacrificed for the country, ensuring veterans have access to the legal assistance they need.

Originally published by Notre Dame Law School at law.nd.edu on May 23, 2025.

The University of Notre Dame marked the opening of its new Washington, D.C., office with a blessing and dedication ceremony, highlighting the University’s growing presence in the nation’s capital. As the leading U.S. Catholic research university, Notre Dame is deepening its commitment to shaping national and global dialogue through scholarship, service and civil discourse.

Located at 1201 Pennsylvania Ave. NW — just blocks from Capitol Hill and the White House — the new office will serve as Notre Dame’s hub for federal engagement, ensuring the University’s research and thought leadership effectively inform policy, public debate and innovation.

University President Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C., was on hand for the dedication, joined by members of the University’s Board of Trustees, senior leadership, faculty, alumni and distinguished guests.

“This office will empower us to bring the fullness of Notre Dame — its values, research, people and faith — into closer dialogue with the pressing issues of our day,” Father Dowd said. “It will serve as a launching pad for collaboration, creativity, servant leadership and enduring impact in service of the common good.”

A national platform for Notre Dame’s mission

The Washington Office connects the University to the nation’s capital, working to ensure that Notre Dame’s scholarship, research and Catholic mission help shape public policy and civic discourse at the highest levels. Jointly led by Notre Dame Research and the Office of Public Affairs and Communications, the office also provides strategic guidance to campus leadership on federal policies and regulations that may affect the University.

As part of its interdisciplinary mission, the office strengthens relationships with Congress, federal agencies, the media and peer institutions, while also serving as a resource and connection point for Notre Dame faculty, students, alumni and friends across the country.

“Notre Dame has long been a part of the fabric of this consequential city — from our students interning on the Hill and in federal agencies, to faculty shaping policy through research and testimony, to alumni in leadership positions in government, law and public service,” said Laura McAleer, associate vice president for federal and Washington relations. “This new space reflects Notre Dame’s deepening commitment to that impactful work.”

The new location complements Notre Dame’s existing presence in the capital, including the Washington Program and the Keough School of Global Affairs Washington Office, which is the University’s first physical footprint in D.C. Located just a few blocks away from the new office, the Keough School leads essential global policy work and will continue to serve as a vital convening space for the Notre Dame community. Together, these locations strengthen Notre Dame’s impact and reach as a force for good in Washington and beyond.

Watch: From the Golden Dome to the Capitol Dome
See how Notre Dame’s mission comes to life in Washington in this short video:

For more information on Notre Dame’s work in Washington, visit washingtonoffice.nd.edu.

Originally published by Olivia Rotolo at washingtonoffice.nd.edu on May 29.

This scholarship offers up to $2,000 per semester to eligible* staff and can be used to cover key education-related expenses like tuition, books, and fees. Whether you’re looking to finish a degree, take a certification course, or explore a new subject, this benefit can help lighten the financial load.

How to Apply

Getting started is simple:

1. Review the informational article and application instructions.

2. Download and complete the application form.

3. Submit the following by June 30, 2025:

   • A short essay (300 words)

   • A recommendation from your supervisor

   • The completed application form

Submit everything by email to tuition@nd.edu.

Questions?

If you’d like more information or need help with the application process, you can submit a case at selfservice.nd.edu

Take advantage of this opportunity to grow personally and professionally—we’re here to support your journey every step of the way.

*To be eligible, you must have completed at least one year of full-time service as of the first day of classes for which you’re requesting assistance.

Why Participate?

• Support Your Growth – Build skills that apply directly to your current role and long-term aspirations.

• Connect with Others – Learn alongside colleagues from across the University in engaging, interactive sessions.

• Lead with Confidence – Gain tools that empower you to take initiative, communicate effectively, and contribute to a positive workplace culture.

Workshops are offered throughout June, July, August, and September, with options for both individual contributors and people leaders. Explore the full catalog and register today. Don’t wait to take the next step in your development journey.

Because when you invest in yourself—you strengthen our entire community.

For over two decades, Benita Ramirez has been a cornerstone of North Dining Hall, her presence as comforting as her home-style cooking. Benita sees the stream of students passing through her line as an extension of her family. "It feels like I'm cooking for my own children," she says, a sentiment that speaks volumes about the strong sense of community she fosters around the long tables in the dining hall.

But Benita's devotion extends far beyond the Notre Dame community; it radiates towards her three daughters, her triplets: Eva, Esmeralda, and Elizabeth. This Mother's Day, their success shines as a testament to Benita's commitment and the opportunities afforded by her long tenure at the University. Thanks to the education benefits that the University provides, each of her daughters has blossomed in the medical field, a dream that might have remained distant without this support. Today, all three sisters are thriving in their respective careers, a living embodiment of their mother's sacrifices and the power of education.

"Without the benefits from Notre Dame, it would be very hard to put my daughters through college. It gave my family peace of mind," Benita reflects. The University's commitment to its employees extends to their families, offering dependents of regular, full-time staff who have completed at least five consecutive years of service the chance to pursue a bachelor's degree. This portable benefit, applicable to any accredited college or university, covers tuition and mandatory fees up to 50 percent of Notre Dame’s own tuition costs for their children attending other institutions full-time.

The lively chatter and shared meals in the Notre Dame dining halls weren't just a part of Benita's workday; they were a constant reminder of the vibrant community that supported her family's dreams.

"Notre Dame gives you a lot of opportunities for both you and your family, if you are willing to take them," Benita shares. Her dedication, both in nurturing the students of Notre Dame and raising her accomplished daughters, is a heartwarming tribute to motherhood that we celebrate each May.

Originally published by Molly Di Carlo at dining.nd.edu on May 01, 2025.

Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C., president of the University of Notre Dame, offered his prayers for Pope Leo XIV, elected by the College of Cardinals today in Vatican City as the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church.

“The Notre Dame community joins with the Church worldwide in giving thanks and rejoicing in the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope,” Father Dowd said. “We celebrate his work as a tireless missionary who has never hesitated to cross borders to announce the Gospel. A leader of vision, humility and energy, he has inspired us with his compassion, generosity and love for the people of God. As he begins his pontificate, we pray that Pope Leo will always be blessed with the wisdom, courage and fortitude he will need.”

Notre Dame will celebrate a special Mass of Thanksgiving for Pope Leo XIV at 5:15 p.m. today in the Basilica. Father Dowd will preside.

Originally published by Notre Dame News at news.nd.edu on May 08, 2025.

The gathering, open to all faculty and staff, will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Thursday, May 22, in the Downes Club at Corbett Family Hall. A buffet lunch will be provided. Registration is due Friday, May 9.

Moreno will share insights into how names carry deep personal legacy and cultural significance and will offer guidance on how to navigate the pronunciation of uncommon names with care and respect.

“During this session, we will examine how the way we pronounce names affects our capacity to genuinely see, understand, and connect with each other,” Moreno said. “By engaging in interactive discussions and utilizing practical tools, we aim to cultivate a campus culture where every person feels respected, valued, and seen as part of our Beloved Community. Exploring how we pronounce one another will foster connections that enhance our collaborative efforts, promote empathy, and further our understanding throughout campus life.”

Hosted by the Office of Institutional Transformation in partnership with NDHR, Beloved Community Gatherings are designed to break down barriers, build bridges, and celebrate the richness of the Notre Dame community. Each event centers on shared stories, meaningful conversation, and connection.

The inaugural Beloved Community Gathering was held earlier this year as part of Walk the Walk Week. The event featured a welcome from Executive Vice President Shannon Cullinan and a keynote by Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove, a spiritual writer, preacher, and community cultivator.

Originally published by NDWorks at ndworks.nd.edu on April 28, 2025.