Victory at Notre Dame: Pro-Abortion Professor Withdraws
Shock waves spread across the University of Notre Dame after Prof. Susan Ostermann, a vocal supporter of abortion, was appointed to lead the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies. Many questioned her appointment. How could a prominent advocate of policies contrary to Church teaching be entrusted with a leadership role at a Catholic university?
On its part, TFP Student Action launched a prayerful petition urging Fr. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C., president of Notre Dame, to uphold the university’s Catholic identity. The petition emphasized that leadership at a Catholic university should reflect and advance the institution’s mission, and that those who publicly promote abortion cause confusion and scandal. Over 12,000 Catholics added their signatures in support.
Prof. Ostermann’s appointment drew concern from donors, alumni, students, and faculty. Most Rev. Kevin C. Rhoades, Bishop of Fort Wayne–South Bend, expressed his “dismay and strong opposition.” Although at least fifteen cardinals, archbishops, and bishops joined the growing chorus of protest, university officials remained silent.
The prayerful protest was not in vain. On February 26, Prof. Ostermann announced that she would not move forward as Director of the Liu Institute. Catholics achieved a small victory. The petition was effective. While many welcomed the news, concern still lingers about the university’s hiring policy and its broader commitment to upholding Catholic morality.
Abortion is a red line. The Church’s teaching admits no ambiguity: Direct abortion is a grave and intrinsic evil. Not only does the murder of the innocent transgress the Fifth Commandment, but it is listed as one of the four sins that “cry out to Heaven for vengeance.”
Leadership positions at Catholic institutions should be entrusted to those who uphold Church teaching and serve as role models of virtue for students. The future of Notre Dame’s soul depends on it. However, despite her advocacy in favor of the sin of abortion, Prof. Ostermann remains in her faculty position as Associate Professor of Global Affairs.
There is no indication that Prof. Ostermann renounced her pro-abortion activism or abandoned her views contrary to Catholic teaching.
Luke Woodyard, a young pro-life leader and Notre Dame sophomore, told Fox News that he remains concerned about the university’s long-term fidelity to God. “This is a big win, but the war for Notre Dame’s Catholic Identity is not yet over," he said. “Not only will Ostermann remain at Notre Dame, but she will remain as a professor perpetuating a culture of death within Notre Dame’s walls.”
Notre Dame has a responsibility to ensure that its faculty and leadership reflect its mission. The voices of cardinals, bishops, priests, students, donors, alumni, and 12,000 faithful have spoken. But will Notre Dame listen?