The Legacy of a Call: A 40-Year Journey of Transformation

Forty years ago, a courageous collective of Black alumni, students, and leaders from the Notre Dame Alumni Association answered Rev. Theodore Hesburgh, C.S.C.’s call to action in a historic meeting that laid the groundwork for a more inclusive Notre Dame. That transformative dialogue led to the founding of the Black Alumni of Notre Dame, the first of nine groups aimed at enhancing the experience and presence of alumni and students of all backgrounds.

Join us for highlights from impactful conversations with founding members of the Black Alumni, and current students as they discussed our shared journey and co-created a vision for the next 40 years of progress.

“The Legacy of a Call: A 40-Year Journey of Transformation” was a fireside chat with Black Alumni changemakers convened on October 2, 2025 at Heritage Hall at the Joyce Center on the University of Notre Dame’s campus, by followed a reception and student networking.

Presented in parnership with the Initiative on Race and Resilience and the Notre Dame Alumni Association.