It's hard to believe that the University of Notre Dame only went coed in 1972. But after 130 years of all-male education, we made a change for the better. The process, however, wasn't easy. The excerpts below are pulled from a memoir written by Jean Lenz, O.S.F., the first female rector of Farley Hall. In her book, she talks of the struggles and triumphs that loyal daughters faced when welcomed by Her loyal sons, and all the hilarity and drama that ensued in between. Loyal Sons and Daughters can be found online or at the Notre Dame bookstore, and is a fantastic read for any parent or incoming student who is experiencing Notre Dame for the first time.
Sr. Jean served as rector of Farley from 1972 to 1983, and, upon retiring in 2008, chose to return to Farley to reside until her passing in 2012. To read more about Sr. Jean's life, take a look at some articles from the Notre Dame news. We are proud to honor Sr. Jean as our first Farley sister (pun totally intended). |