Annual Mass Celebrating Diversity and the Progress of People

The Notre Dame community came together for our annual Mass for Diversity and the Progress of People. SHADES Club students organized and participated in this special event. The program featured a guest homilist, petitions offered in various languages, the presentation of cultural gifts, and a talk by Dr. Ingbritsen.

Our Chaplain, Fr. Colavito, celebrated the Mass alongside Deacon Rich Hobson and special guest Deacon Dr. Curtis Turner. Dr. Turner is the Head of School at Sister Frances Academy High School, our "sister school" in Baltimore, MD. He has been involved in secondary education since 1993, working in public and Catholic high schools. Dr. Turner is a graduate of Howard University in Washington, DC, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Physics, and he holds both a master's and a doctorate in science education from the University of Massachusetts–Amherst. In addition to assisting with the liturgy, Deacon Turner delivered an inspiring homily.

After the Mass, Dr. Ingbritsen spoke to students about Black History in Trenton. Our guests, students, faculty, and staff made this Mass memorable!

When reflecting on this month, President Jennings stated, "Notre Dame proudly honors Black History Month, a time for reflection, celebration, and appreciation of the rich mosaic of cultures, languages, and ethnicities that enrich our community."

This annual Mass for Diversity and the Progress of People encourages kindness and celebrates our differences. It emphasizes the Mercy Core values of service, compassion, justice, integrity, and respect, driving home the importance of embracing one another and uplifting our communities. By embodying these values, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.