Susan Ostermann, a professor at the University of Notre Dame, will not assume the directorship of the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies after widespread backlash to her appointment within the Catholic academic community. According to The Pillar, Keough School Dean Mary Gallagher told faculty Feb. 26 that Ostermann decided not to proceed with the leadership role following days of mounting public criticism. The university scheduled her to assume the role in July.
The selection drew criticism from students, faculty, donors and several bishops, including Bishop Kevin Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend. Sources cited by The Pillar stated that nearly a dozen bishops privately raised concerns. Other bishops publicly opposed the decision in formal statements and private correspondence. Gallagher described Ostermann as a respected scholar and expressed gratitude for her willingness to serve. However, major benefactors and trustees reacted strongly to the appointment, and some described themselves as “livid.”
The Pillar reported that Notre Dame President Fr. Robert Dowd was surprised by both the appointment and the scale of opposition. Critics said the leadership role threatened the university’s Catholic identity. Defenders, however, argued that academic freedom remains central to the institution’s mission. Bishop Rhoades called the decision a “scandal” and urged institution leaders to rectify the situation.