The United States Postal Service released a new stamp today (Fri) featuring long time University of Notre Dame President Father Ted Hesburgh.
Father Hesburgh served as president of Notre Dame from 1952 to 1987.
During that time, Hesburgh championed civil rights, oversaw the university becoming co-educational, and the transfer of ownership from Holy Cross priests to the Notre Dame board of trustees. He was also active in many other social, governmental and educational causes.
Under his leadership enrollment, faculty and budget at the university dramatically increased.
Hesburgh was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964 and a Congressional Gold Medal in 2000.
Former U.S. Secretary of State, and 1975 Notre Dame graduate Condoleezza Rice spoke at the ceremony. She said Father Hesburgh can be a role model in these times.
“In a time of difficulty for our country, a time of division, a time when people hurt, a time when people have trouble just being civil to one another it will help us to look at it and to say that is what we want to be because in the final analysis Father Ted was someone who didn’t just see the world as it is, he saw the world as it should be.”
The commemorative stamp features a head and shoulders portrait of Hesburgh with the iconic Notre Dame golden dome in the background.
Postmaster General Megan Brennan said the stamp is based off a 1980 photo by Bruce Harlan that captures the essence of Father Hesburgh.
“You’ll see a likeness that exudes the warmth and openness Father Hesburgh was known for. The smile is subtle and the eyes are fixed ahead, capturing his benevolence and his determination.”
Hesburgh died in 2015 at age 97.