News

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University increases lobbying spending amidst higher education policy changes

By Grace Sullivan and Sophie Hanawalt · Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026

Notre Dame reported spending $750,000 on their lobbyists in 2025, focusing efforts on a wide range of issues pertaining to research, athletics and immigration, among others.

Students plan ‘March on the Dome’ for Friday to protest Ostermann appointment

By Observer News Staff · Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026

Student leaders from Catholic and conservative groups across campus will host “March on the Dome” Friday, protesting the appointment of Susan Ostermann to lead the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies.

Br. James Kozak passes away at Holy Cross College

By Observer News Staff · Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026

Br. James Kozak, a chaplain for the Holy Cross College soccer teams and an assistant rector at Pulte Hall, passed away at age 82 on Jan. 20.

Students share experiences applying for accommodations with Accessibility Resource Office

By Sophie Lewandowski · Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026

Office connects students with mental health resources and grants academic accommodations.

University President directs speech to juniors and their families during JPW

Notre Dame’s Junior Parents Weekend centers on hope, reflection and community

By Mara Hall · Monday, Feb. 23, 2026

Junior Parents Weekend brings hundreds to campus for a series of events dedicated to the Class of 2027 and their families.

Editor-in-Chief names 2026-27 Observer Editorial Board

By Observer News Staff · Friday, Feb. 20, 2026

Ten department heads and seven management editors will comprise the 2026-27 Observer Editorial Board. The board collectively boasts 15 years of prior experience as editors, the most in the paper’s history.

Bishop Kevin Rhoades speaks on global migration crisis at Holy Cross College

By Eileen Doyle · Friday, Feb. 20, 2026

Bishop Kevin Rhoades visited Holy Cross College as part of the Mind and Heart Lecture Series to address the global migration and refugee crisis. He emphasized the moral responsibility to recognize the dignity of displaced people while balancing national responsibilities.

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Campus life council passes first resolution in three years

By David Murphy · Friday, Feb. 20, 2026

The Campus life council unanimously passed its first resolution in three years to address off-campus housing, urging the University to work with local officials to curb early lease signing practices that pressure students to commit years in advance.

Keenan Revue residents prepare for show’s 50th rendition

By Mara Hall · Friday, Feb. 20, 2026

For Keenan residents, their Revue is not just another signature event, it is “community,” “family” and “love.”

Basilica welcomes thousands as Lent begins across campus

By Annelise Demers and Matthew Morin · Friday, Feb. 20, 2026

With ashes traced on foreheads and the words “Come to me, all of you” echoing from God Quad, Notre Dame began Lent as a season of response rather than perfection.

South Dining Hall renovations bring minor frustrations

By Claire Trowbridge · Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026

As South Dining Hall undergoes renovations, students report minor inconveniences such as damp plates and inconsistent silverware stocking, though Dining Services maintains all safety standards are met.

Theology book club returns with one-credit Graham Greene course

By Matthew Morin · Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026

Professor Anthony Paglarini, director of undergraduate studies in the Theology Department, is teaching the third year of the theology book club with Graham Greene as this year's focus.

Students navigate allergies at Noble Dining Hall

By Aynslee Dellacca and Sophie Lewandowski · Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026

Noble Family Dining Hall is working to expand allergy accommodations, while students with dietary restrictions say challenges with cross-contamination and labeling remain.

Notre Dame receives “F” grade from Students for Life of America

By Observer News Staff · Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026

Students for Life of American (SFLA) cited Susan Ostermann’s appointment to lead the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian studies as their reason for dropping Notre Dame from a “B” to an “F” in their Mid-Year Report Card for Christian Schools.

Class of 2026 Celebrates 100 Days Dance

By Laurel O’Brien · Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026

The 2025-2026 senior class council hosted the 100 Days Dance at the Stepan Center, increasing capacity by another 400 students.

Saint Mary’s students revive The Blue Mantle

By Mariella Taddonio · Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, Saint Mary’s College will revive its student yearbook, The Blue Mantle, after a student-led effort to reestablish the publication.

Department chair of business and economics James Rogers retires after 11 years

By Soledad Castellanos · Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026

After 11 years at Saint Mary’s College, Professor James Rogers is retiring as chair of the Department of Business Administration and Economics, concluding a career marked by entrepreneurship, teaching and community impact.