2026–27 Academic Year

Opening of the Academic Year Mass

Illustration of Notre Dame's Main Building. Its golden dome, topped with a statue of Our Lady, rises above Father Sorin's statue at the base. Green trees frame the iconic structure against a blue sky.

Monday, August 24, 5:15 p.m.

Purcell Pavilion, Joyce Center

Undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, staff and their families are warmly invited to gather for the Opening of the Academic Year Mass as we ask for God’s blessing on the year ahead. Join us at 5:15 p.m. Monday, August 24, in the Purcell Pavilion of the Joyce Center.

Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C., University president, will serve as presider and homilist.

All are welcome!

A seating area is reserved for faculty and staff members on the floor of the Purcell Pavilion. There will be no formal academic procession to Mass, and academic regalia is not required.

All students are invited to sit with their residence halls. Banners will be in place in the Purcell Pavilion to indicate seating areas. Students, check with your rector or resident assistant about opportunities to walk together to Mass.

Following Mass, all undergraduate and graduate students and their families, regardless of meal plan, are invited to gather for dinner in North or South Dining Hall. Student IDs will be required.