University of Notre Dame - College of Arts & Letters

A&L faculty spotlight?? Meet Peter Cajka, assistant teaching professor and director of undergraduate studies in the Department of American Studies. His research sits at the intersection of Catholic studies, the history of ideas, and the history of sexuality. We asked Cajka to reflect on his time at Notre Dame ?? “I love teaching in Notre Dame American studies because of our versatility. In my intellectual history class, we closely read Abraham Lincoln; in “The Vietnam War and American Catholics,” we break down the symbols of Catholic sacramental resistance; in my course on the Sixties, we consider the ideas of radical feminists; and in “The Introduction to American Studies,” we study the heroification of Christopher Columbus. We pick apart the details of films, poetry, paintings, posters, statues, and even the occasional music video (we watch Madonna’s “Like A Prayer” in my course on the culture wars). I want students to see the world as a text that can be read, enjoyed, and criticized.” “A Notre Dame education in the liberal arts should always be transformational and never a mere transaction. As we confront the diversity and complexity of America – as an ideal and a reality – we begin working towards justice and truth. My favorite part of teaching at Notre Dame is the conversations I have with students about a provocative idea or a classic text. I want to know what they think about our course readings – and I always walk out of class with a bounce in my step because of the energy they bring to each course session. I often reflect on the moments of grace that brought me to Arts & Letters to work with my brilliant colleagues and brave students. I am not sure how it all happened but I am grateful it did!”

A lot has changed since University of Notre Dame was founded in 1842, but the College of Arts & Letters — the University's oldest and largest college — has remained committed to intellectual curiosity and excellence in the liberal arts throughout the years. Enjoy these throwback photos of iconic spots around campus! ???? 1. O'Shaughnessy Hall, c1950s 2. View of campus from Hesburgh Library, 1967 3. The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, c1920s 4. View of campus, c1890s

The Biblioteca Ambrosiana collection of rare medieval manuscripts has faced destruction twice before during periods of intense geopolitical conflict. Now, its reproductions housed at Hesburgh Library faces another foe ... time. The spools of microfilm have begun to deteriorate—“like, as we speak,” Julia Schneider, Hesburgh Library's medieval studies subject librarian said. The Library is working with the Ambrosiana to digitize the manuscripts and provide cloud storage to bring medieval studies into a new era: https://go.nd.edu/33f139

Three University of Notre Dame - College of Arts & Letters have been named to the prestigious 2025 RHSU Edu-Scholar Public Influence Rankings. This annual list honors scholars whose work has had a significant impact on educational practice and policy nationwide. Congratulations to Ernest Morrell, Mark Berends, and Jeff Denning, all of whom are faculty fellows at the Institute for Educational Initiatives and are advancing change in PK-12 and higher education. https://lnkd.in/gEcdTchH

Joe Piarulli knows a thing or two about what makes a good story. The 2009 University of Notre Dame - College of Arts & Letters graduate has worked on many TV shows throughout his career, such as Girls, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, The Tick, F is for Family, and Obliterated. But it might be his own story that’s scripted best — a tale of passion, pursuit, and persistence. https://lnkd.in/gCeT4C68

Last week, Arts & Letters students were able to see how their intellectual curiosity has set them up for limitless opportunities at the Spring Semester Career Fair. At the event, students were able to gain job and internship insights, network with 130+ senior mentors, and establish professional connections with employers.

Meet Ally Barkasy, an Arts & Letters sophomore majoring in history and minoring in business economics. Last summer, Ally participated in a research fellowship in Peru through the Kellogg Institute for International Studies. This experience deepened her understanding of global educational disparities and demonstrated the impact that historical insight can play in addressing today’s issues. Here’s what Ally had to share about her journey in the College of Arts & Letters: "I’ve always been naturally curious, constantly questioning and reflecting on the past as a means to better understand and improve the present. Majoring in history has been a natural fit for me, providing a gateway to delve into the complexities of the past to better grasp our current world. The College of Arts and Letters is ideal for curious minds like mine, offering the perfect setting to explore these questions and pursue a broad range of interests." "My education in Arts & Letters has not only deepened my understanding of history but also expanded my perspective across various fields. It’s challenged me to think both critically and creatively, whether I’m analyzing historical documents in archives or engaging in community-based projects in Peru. This education has offered me more than just knowledge — it has equipped me with the skills and adaptability needed to follow any path I choose. Each day, I'm reminded that my studies in Arts & Letters aren't just rewarding — they're preparing me for a future filled with limitless possibilities."

On the latest episode of the Notre Dame Stories podcast, Father Bob Dowd and Rev. Canon Hugh R. Page Jr. explore the University’s mission, the importance of bridging differences, and how faith informs their work in fostering a beloved community on campus and in the world. Listen as they discuss their shared commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all.: https://go.nd.edu/099b2d

Are you interested in Shakespeare and Startups, History and Hedge Funds, or Theology and Technology? Underclassmen (first and second-year) students University of Notre Dame - College of Arts & Letters are invited to attend this upcoming event to learn more about Sheedy Family Program in Economy, Enterprise, and Society! Beyond the Dome is hosting a student panel featuring A&L students who have used the program to enhance their educational journey at Notre Dame and purposefully develop their professional careers. The panel will take place on Wednesday, February 5th, from 5:00 - 6:00 PM in Debartolo 119. This event is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the application process, which is OPEN until February 14th: https://lnkd.in/erZ8HmyJ Free Chick-fil-A will be provided while supplies last, making this an event not to miss ????

University of Notre Dame faculty, staff, and students: help ND celebrate outstanding faculty—for major contributions to research, teaching, and service—by nominating colleagues for a University faculty award, NOW through February 17! See below for award descriptions, eligibility criteria, and nomination guidelines. By taking some time to recognize faculty excellence, you can make a big difference in helping us show how much we appreciate our amazing scholar-teachers. And if you have any questions about nominating, or about our faculty-led review process, feel free to reach out to me!