Saint Mary’s College, a women’s Catholic institution in Notre Dame, Indiana, is facing a firestorm of criticism after naming Dr. Mary McAleese, former President of Ireland, as its 2025 commencement speaker and an honorary Doctor of Laws recipient. Announced by president Katie Conboy on March 6, 2025, the decision has drawn fierce opposition from students, alumnae, and pro-life advocates who argue McAleese’s stances on abortion, LGBT rights, and the Catholic Church itself are anti-Catholic and betray the college’s mission. As of April 5, 2025, a Change.org petition opposing her selection has neared 900 signatures.
McAleese, Ireland’s president from 1997 to 2011, is celebrated for her peace efforts yet her post-presidency vocal harsh critiques of Church doctrine have sparked outrage. She voted “no hesitation” to repeal Ireland’s Eighth Amendment in 2018, legalizing abortion, as highlighted in a revealing student interview on YouTube.
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