July  30 , 2026 

The Wilma and Peter Veldman Family Psychology Clinic welcomed local media and community members during an open house last Friday, offering a first look at the new facility and its mission to expand access to mental health care in the region. Located along the Link Trail in South Bend's East Bank neighborhood, the clinic will provide affordable, evidence-based care for children, adults, and families while serving as a hub for research, training, and community partnerships.

Through Notre Dame Law School's Eviction Clinic, students work alongside attorneys to provide free legal assistance to renters in St. Joseph County, helping them navigate eviction proceedings, resolve housing disputes, and understand their rights. The clinic's impact extends beyond individual cases by working with community partners and policymakers to strengthen housing protections and improve access to justice for renters across Indiana.

A new state grant will help the McKenna Center at Notre Dame expand support for aspiring entrepreneurs across northwest Indiana through the development of an AI-powered business coaching platform. Designed for low-income and disadvantaged small business owners, the AI Pocket Mentor will provide personalized, around-the-clock guidance on topics like marketing, pricing, hiring, and business planning. The new tool will complement the McKenna Center's existing entrepreneurship programs, helping more local business owners access the resources they need to launch and grow successful businesses.

The Robinson Community Learning Center welcomed more than 250 residents, South Bend police officers, and community partners for its annual Cops and Community celebration on July 17. Along with games, food, and student performances, the event provided opportunities for families to meet the officers and community organizations that serve the neighborhood throughout the year.

A new episode of The Link podcast spotlights the power of partnership through the story of Serendipity Baking Co. and Notre Dame's Bridging to Business program. Designed to connect local entrepreneurs with University purchasing opportunities, the program helps small businesses navigate the procurement process, build relationships across campus, and expand their customer base. 

Two members of the Notre Dame community have been named to the 2026 Michiana Forty Under 40 class, recognizing professionals who are helping shape the future of the South Bend-Elkhart region through leadership, service, and innovation. Among this year's honorees are Kevin Cassidy, associate athletics director for revenue generation and fan experience, and Jamila Lee-Johnson, assistant dean for inclusive excellence. This year's class was honored at a ceremony on May 29. 

The Notre Dame Arts Initiative has awarded 38 grants totaling more than $400,000 to support community and campus partners in the inaugural Notre Dame Arts Biennial. Running January through June 2027, the biennial will expand access to world-class arts experiences across the region. Explore the funded projects and find ways to get involved.

"Beyond ND" highlights ways the University of Notre Dame is engaged with, invested in, and committed to the region through partnerships with community businesses, government, educators, and organizations. The University's Office of Public Affairs produces this newsletter. Read more at publicaffairs.nd.edu.

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