Laetare Medal

The Laetare Medal, established in 1983 , an honorary award of the University of Notre Dame that is considered the most prestigious honor for American Catholics. Father Peter Jarret, counselor to the University President in 2005, "The award is meant to recognize the contributions of men and women whose faith energizes their work," and "A candidate for the Laetare Medal must be a practicing American Catholic who is said to have made a distinctively Catholic contribution to his or her intellectual or professional life. Ideally, the person's professional life would be one of service to others."

The medal recipient is chosen by a committee, the final decision rests with Officers of the University.

Past recipients

• John F. Kennedy
• Dorthy Day
• Sister Helen Prejean

Barack Obama

Barack Obama is nominated to receive this prestigious award at the May 17th commencement. In addition, the school’s traditional doctoral robe--which is emblazoned with a cross and a prayer to the Virgin Mary, will be worn by Obama. This has stirring anger and resentment for the University honoring a supporter of abortion, against Catholic doctrine. More Than 250,000 sign petition protesting this decision by The Cardinal Newman Society.