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The American Council on Education's Commission on Faith-Based Colleges and Universities held its second meeting, marking the first participation of Holy Cross Father Robert A. Dowd since becoming the president of the University of Notre Dame. The event was described by Father Dowd as "a very diverse group of interactions," providing him with an opportunity to both listen and contribute to discussions about the challenges faced by faith-based higher education.
Father Dowd emphasized the importance of mutual learning among participants, stating, “To me, the important thing is that we learn from each other. I think that’s the most important thing … about how we can best serve this society.”
The symposium took place at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington on June 9. It featured a documentary from Brigham Young University showcasing stories of students like Isabela Barboza from The Catholic University of America, who shared her perspective: “If religion is part of my life, it has to be part of my education and formation.” She noted that at CUA, “Faith is acceptable, always.”
The commission comprises 18 members representing various denominations. Its mission since its founding in 2024 has been "to increase visibility for the important contributions of religious and faith-based colleges and universities and to foster collaboration between religious and nonreligious colleges and universities that benefits the whole of higher education." Co-chairs include Shirley Hoogstra and Clark Gilbert.
Ted Mitchell, president of the American Council on Education, remarked on the significance of faith-based institutions: “Faith-based institutions are the bedrock of American higher education, and we’ve not paid adequate attention to that role and to that responsibility.”
While no public policy recommendations emerged from this gathering, it focused on sharing ideas about faith-based education's unique aspects. Mitchell stated, “Gathering together is magic,” highlighting its irreplaceable value.
Keynote speaker Ryan Burge noted surveys showing a correlation between graduate degrees and church attendance: “College is not antithetical to religion. In some ways, it actually accelerates religion, enhances religion.” He also quoted atheist author Jonathan Rauch regarding religion's foundational role in democracy.
Burge further explained how religion benefits students by providing discipline and structure conducive to academic success.
During a panel discussion following a screening at the event, Father Dowd spoke about Notre Dame’s approach: “Notre Dame is a place where we educate the whole person... where matters of the heart as well as life of mind are very much valued.” Rabbi Ari Berman from Yeshiva University highlighted open dialogues his students engage in about Israel.
Michael Lindsay from Taylor University discussed appealing aspects for students who feel they can express their full selves within a supportive environment.
With over 13,000 students enrolled across undergraduate and graduate programs at Notre Dame rooted in Catholic tradition offering moral frameworks yet encouraging exploration beyond confines—Father Dowd expressed this openness: "It opens us up to world."
Kurt Jensen reports for OSV News from Washington.
