NDWorks Weekly

CAMPUS NEWS FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

January 21, 2026

This is the sixth in a series of features highlighting the managing directors of the University’s strategic initiatives. The managing directors are key senior staff members who work directly with the faculty directors to help implement and operationalize the vision for the initiatives, oversee initiative staff, and serve as thought partners for the faculty directors.

A woman with brown hair, a blue blazer, and tan pants smiles and stands with her arms crossed in front of a building under construction.

Strategic Framework

Mental Health Initiative leader driven by personal experience to serve others

Jennifer Burke Lefever is a lifelong mental health advocate at the forefront of psychology research in the South Bend area. Her hands-on work will bring the Wilma and Peter Veldman Family Psychology Clinic to life.

A woman with light brown skin and short curly hair smiles at an event. She is wearing a light blue dress and has dark glasses.

Building a Beloved Community

Beloved Community Gathering to explore ‘where love leads’ in higher education

As part of Walk the Walk Week, faculty and staff are invited to gather for a meaningful lunchtime conversation focused on leadership, love, and belonging in higher education. The gathering will invite participants to explore what leadership rooted in love and inclusive excellence looks like in practice.

A black and gold graphic advertising the Walk the Walk Week keynote events on January 26.

A white woman with long blond hair and a black sweater smiles for a photo.

University

Susan Ostermann named Liu Institute director, starting July 1

An associate professor of global affairs and a political scientist who studies state capacity, law, and regulatory compliance, Ostermann brings deep regional expertise and an interdisciplinary approach shaped by years of fieldwork across South Asia.

A white man with brown hair and a short beard pulls a blue campus recycling bin. The man is wearing brown work boots and a blue uniform. Behind him are more bins and shelving units.

Sustainability

Campus sustainability data demonstrates a year of achievements

From the food we eat to the energy that keeps the lights on for late-night study sessions, here are highlights of how Notre Dame is working to care for our common home.

Arts

Applications open for public participation in Arts Biennial

Rooted in the creative spirit, intellectual energy, and iconic traditions of Notre Dame and the region, the six-month festival will present world-class performances, exhibitions, courses, and gatherings on Notre Dame’s campus, in and around South Bend, and across Notre Dame’s global network.

A gold graphic reads In memory, Recently deceased employees and retirees.

NDWorks

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