Kerry Robinson’s Inspiring 2025 Laetare Address: Insights and Reflections

Thank you to Fr. Bob Dowd, John Veihmeyer, and the warm community at the University of Notre Dame. Congratulations, Class of 2025! This is a big moment in your lives.

Interestingly, this is my first time here, especially in this iconic football venue. Unlike my husband, I didn’t grow up a Notre Dame fan. But after marrying him and seeing the excitement around the Fighting Irish, I cheered along last year during your thrilling run to the national championship. I can only imagine the joy in the stands during that historic College Football Playoff game.

You shared that famous night with friends in a supportive community. It reminds me of the joy people felt recently in St. Peter’s Square when the world welcomed a new pope. There was a sense of belonging, joy, and hope. As you leave this campus today, I encourage you to seek genuine human connections. Be present in the moment, be generous, and stay hopeful.

Now, you are entering a world that can pull you apart—from political divides to quick tech changes. It’s easy to feel isolated. But there’s a way to counter this feeling of loneliness. Pope Francis talks about building a culture of encounter and connection. The more open we are to others, the more we understand their joys and struggles. This awareness makes us a source of hope for them.

Many of you will embark on careers focused on helping others, like the inspirational figures receiving honors today and your dedicated professors. But remember, you don’t have to hold a prestigious title to make a difference. We all can be generous.

Generosity is something we all can practice. It can be as simple as being kind, listening well, and supporting each other. We can contribute to our communities and offer our time to those in need. Last year, over 215,000 people volunteered with Catholic Charities across the country. That’s a powerful reminder of the impact we can make.

Your time at Notre Dame has shaped you into individuals ready to serve and uplift others. Service brings purpose and meaning. Those who give often discover that they receive even more in return.

Life will have its ups and downs, and it won’t always be as thrilling as a long touchdown run. However, focusing on real connections and helping others will lead to a more fulfilling life.

Don’t just take my word for it. Look to your role models, especially in light of Pope Leo XIV’s words: “When we open our lives to serve others, we receive even more.”

Class of 2025, I wish you all the best on your journey. Thank you, Notre Dame, for welcoming me into your tradition and for shining a light on the vital work of Catholic Charities. Congratulations once again, and Go Irish!

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