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Bishop Rhoades Opposes Notre Dame's Pro-Abortion Director Appointment

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 11, Bishop Kevin Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Indiana, opposed the University of Notre Dame's appointment of Susan Ostermann as director of the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies.
Rhoades described Ostermann as a pro-abortion advocate whose public advocacy and remarks against the pro-life movement conflict with Notre Dame's Catholic identity.
Rhoades urged rescinding the appointment, which takes effect on July 1, 2026, and has caused confusion among the faithful.

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Story summary

On February 11, Bishop Kevin Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Indiana, opposed the University of Notre Dame's appointment of Susan Ostermann as director of the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies.
Rhoades described Ostermann as a pro-abortion advocate whose public advocacy and remarks against the pro-life movement conflict with Notre Dame's Catholic identity.
Rhoades urged rescinding the appointment, which takes effect on July 1, 2026, and has caused confusion among the faithful.