The University of Notre Dame Joins the GFCC

Credit: Notre Dame University website

The GFCC is pleased to welcome the University of Notre Dame to its global network of thought-leading institutions shaping the future of higher education and innovation.

Founded more than 180 years ago and located in South Bend, Indiana (USA), the University of Notre Dame is a preeminent global Catholic research university guided by a mission to serve humanity through education, research, and ethical leadership. Its work consistently bridges academic excellence with a deep commitment to the common good.

Notre Dame has been at the forefront of groundbreaking research across multiple disciplines, with notable contributions in cancer, maternal health, advanced hurricane forecasting, avian virus detection, and community regeneration. These efforts reflect the university’s emphasis on research that delivers human-centered solutions to complex global challenges.

“Notre Dame brings a powerful combination of ethical leadership and research excellence to the GFCC network,” says GFCC President Deborah L. Wince-Smith. “As a world-leading Catholic research university, its work in innovation, health, and community impact contributes valuable insight and practical solutions to some of today’s most pressing societal challenges, including poverty and inequality.”

The university is also widely recognized for combining rigorous academic standards with a strong ethical framework—anchored in a sustained commitment to addressing poverty, injustice, and social inequality that continue to affect communities worldwide.

“By joining the GFCC, Notre Dame is in an even better position to tackle the world's most complex challenges, in tandem with a network of global innovators,” said Jeffrey F. Rhoads, the John and Catherine Martin Family Vice President for Research and professor of aerospace and mechanical engineering at the University of Notre Dame.

“We are eager to share our distinctive perspective as a Catholic research university, where high-impact discovery is anchored by a commitment to the common good and inclusive prosperity. This partnership with the GFCC embodies our aspiration to drive integral human development and flourishing through collaborative, mission-driven research.”

Learn more about the University and Research Leadership Forum.