Notre Dame Director Appointment Abandoned

The new director of the Liu Institute for Asian Studies at the University of Notre Dame has opted not to take on the role. This follows some controversy surrounding her previous statements on abortion rights.

In a message shared with the Notre Dame community, Mary Gallagher, the Marilyn Keough Dean at the Keough School of International Studies, informed faculty that Professor Susan Osterman, who had recently been appointed, would no longer be serving as director. Gallagher expressed her appreciation for Osterman’s scholarship, emphasizing the intellectual rigor she brings to the university.

Initially, Osterman’s appointment had been met with significant opposition, particularly due to her vocal support for abortion rights. Numerous members of the clergy, including at least 19 high-ranking bishops and archbishops, publicly opposed her taking this position. Notably, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley and Bishop Robert E. Barron voiced strong concerns about how her appointment aligned with the university’s Catholic mission.

Osterman has a history of articulating her views on abortion in her academic work. For instance, she co-authored an article arguing that access to abortion enhances women’s freedom and dignity. She highlighted that, contrary to popular beliefs, abortion does not cause adverse long-term health effects and that many individuals feel relief after the procedure.

In light of the backlash against her appointment, some faculty members, such as professors Diane A. Desierto and Robert M. Gimero, announced they would be distancing themselves from the Liu Institute. Gallagher later affirmed Osterman’s contributions to the university, highlighting her ongoing value as a faculty member despite her withdrawal from the director role.

Osterman herself reflected on the situation in a statement, mentioning that her original intention was to shepherd the institute’s mission without distractions. She noted that, in the current climate, her appointment risked overshadowing the important work of the institute. She expressed a desire to foster an environment at Notre Dame where varied perspectives can thrive and academic discussions can occur freely.