Themes
The University has identified a set of seven themes that will serve as the framework for the next decade of scholarship, investment, and action—shaping the critical undertakings that will empower the University, its people, and its programs to be a force for good, for all.
The first theme signals an overarching aim for Excellence in Key Research and Scholarship. The icons below represent the additional specific focus areas, as well as student-focused efforts and core priorities, which evolve as the University grows.
Core University Priorities
The University remains committed to cultivating resources that align with its mission and that allow for the flexibility to deliver a Catholic, holistic education to every student. We must remain aware of the dynamic needs of our campus community and be nimble to address them.
Athletics
The University of Notre Dame strives to provide its student-athletes with an unparalleled collegiate experience featuring rigorous academics, spiritual enrichment, community involvement, and competitive excellence at the highest level of collegiate sports. We must always provide a holistic education of the mind, body, and spirit for our student-athletes.
Data and Computational Science
Societies around the world face issues that extend beyond their individual borders. We must engage in global collaboration and serve as partners in international dialogue and scholarship.
Democracy
A community cannot truly serve the common good without diversity of thought and identity. We must more deeply understand the experiences of others and work to address issues affecting all.
Global Catholicism
Notre Dame is uniquely called to translate Church principles into action in service to all humankind. We must demonstrate how faith and reason can work together for the good of humanity and promote Church engagement throughout the world.
Health
Notre Dame is committed to educating the whole person - mind, body, and spirit. We must work to understand pathways of diseases and eliminate barriers to healthcare to promote human flourishing.
Just Sustainability
Human beings share a common home and a common responsibility to protect it. We must pursue solutions to the most existential threats facing the earth and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.
Key Research and Scholarship
Research and scholarship are central to the work and mission of the University. Areas of distinct strength result from the pursuit of truth of our leaders and experts across disciplines. We must invest in these assets to effect change in our world.
Poverty
Poverty and inequitable access to resources place severe limits on human flourishing. We must understand national and global cycles of poverty in order to generate the solutions to end them.
Student Access
Higher education is not easily accessed by all students. We must work to support those in under-served communities and keep financial barriers from preventing students from bringing their talents, passions, and perspectives to the campus community.
Student & Community Life
At the heart of a Notre Dame education is a focus on the student experience. We must continue to offer the very best resources for each and every student from residential connection to social activity, so that they can thrive on campus and in the future. Assets in the arts and in research benefit our regional community, as well, and contribute to quality of place.