Monday, April 1, 2024

Happy April!

Photo from: Experience Notre Dame

I hope this finds you well and in good spirits as we welcome the month of April. With spring blossoming around us, it's a perfect time to reflect on our journey and the paths that led us to Notre Dame.

One of the things I cherish most about our Notre Dame community is the diverse stories of how we all ended up here. From following family legacies to chance encounters with the University's spirit, each journey is unique and special.

As for my own journey, it's a tale of tradition and a touch of April Fools' Day humor. My father, a proud member of the Class of '65, instilled in me a love of Notre Dame from an early age. However, despite his influence, I initially resisted the idea of attending ND. It wasn't until the allure of tradition, coupled with the excitement of a national championship football team in 1988, that I finally succumbed.

But fate has a sense of humor, doesn't it? I'll never forget the day I received my acceptance letter from Notre Dame. April Fool's Day, of all days! By that point, I had received seven acceptances and two rejections, so you can imagine my disbelief when my mom handed me the letter. I was convinced it was an elaborate prank until she opened it right in front of me. It was a dramatic start to what would become an incredible journey, one filled with memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

As we celebrate Easter and the joys of spring, I hope you had a wonderful holiday surrounded by loved ones. May the spirit of renewal and hope that Easter brings continue to inspire us all as we navigate the weeks ahead. 

Wishing you a fantastic April filled with laughter, love, and plenty of Notre Dame spirit.

Happy April! 

Cheers!


Photo of me and the friend who was with me when I opened my acceptance letter in 1989!