The appointment of a pro-abortion professor to lead an academic institute at the University of Notre Dame has sparked significant backlash from various Catholic bishops. This decision has raised concerns about the university’s adherence to its Catholic mission and has resulted in expressions of discontent from church leaders across the United States.
On July 1, 2024, Susan Ostermann, an associate professor of global affairs and political science at Notre Dame since 2017, was named director of the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies. This announcement led to immediate criticism, particularly from Bishop Kevin Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, whose diocese includes the university. He articulated his dismay regarding Ostermann’s appointment, labeling it as scandalous for the faithful and calling on university officials to reconsider the decision.
Bishop James Conley of Lincoln, Nebraska, joined the chorus of dissent on August 10, 2024, emphasizing the need for Catholic institutions to reflect “the truth of the dignity of every human life.” He expressed support for Bishop Rhoades and his concerns about the implications of Ostermann’s views on Catholic identity.
Bishop Robert Barron of Winona-Rochester also voiced his objections. He characterized Ostermann as a vocal critic of the pro-life stance and noted her controversial remarks linking opposition to abortion with issues of white supremacy and racism. He described her appointment as “repugnant” to the core values of Notre Dame.
Archbishop Samuel Aquila of Denver echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for Rhoades’s public stance and lamenting the impact of Ostermann’s appointment on the university’s reputation. He called for action to rescind the decision and prayed for a conversion of hearts regarding this issue.
Ostermann’s academic work includes co-authoring at least eleven opinion columns between May 2022 and May 2024, in which she has advocated for abortion rights and criticized laws aimed at protecting unborn children. In her writings, she has framed such laws as forms of “forced pregnancy” and has argued that supporting abortion is aligned with promoting freedom and integral human development.
The controversy surrounding Ostermann has prompted resignations from two scholars connected to the Liu Institute. Robert Gimello, a research professor emeritus of theology, stated that maintaining his association with the institute under Ostermann’s leadership would be “unconscionable.” He expressed concerns that someone who is “hostile to” Catholic moral principles could not effectively contribute to Notre Dame’s mission.
Additionally, students from Notre Dame Right to Life expressed their disapproval in a letter to the campus newspaper, arguing that Ostermann’s affiliations and views undermine the dignity of human life. Anna Kelley, the group’s president, criticized the appointment, sharing her personal connection to the issue as a Catholic adoptee from China.
In defense of the appointment, Notre Dame officials described Ostermann as “a highly regarded political scientist and legal scholar.” They emphasized that leadership decisions at the university are made in alignment with its Catholic mission and reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the dignity of every person.
As this situation unfolds, the university faces increasing scrutiny from both internal and external stakeholders regarding the implications of appointing a leader whose views are seen as counter to its Catholic identity.
