Celebrating 25 Years
Over the past 25 years, the Institute for Latino Studies (ILS) has built an intellectual community dedicated to the study of Latinos, recognizing not only their growing presence but also their profound cultural importance to our nation. ILS has developed a thriving Latino Studies program, recruited outstanding faculty, launched innovative research initiatives, created transformative student experiences, and built partnerships with Latino-serving organizations.
Since our founding in 1999, ILS has worked tirelessly to advance the understanding of Latino communities - the fastest-growing and youngest population in the United States. At ILS, we embody Notre Dame's mission through our commitment to rigorous research and the preparation of transformative leaders across disciplines. Our work is deeply rooted in Catholic Values and is dedicated to serving society.
25th Celebration Events and Stories
Fostering research
ILS fosters and develops research in Latino Studies by faculty experts from numerous disciplines, positioning them as thought leaders throughout the U.S. and the world.
For 25 years, ILS has led pioneering research that fosters greater understanding of U.S. Latino experiences while also serving as a home to many of the country's foremost scholars. Since its inception, the Institute has supported interdisciplinary initiatives in Latino Studies as part of the University's academic mission, building upon the legacy of Julian Samora, a pioneering Latino scholar and professor of sociology.
Establishing academic programs
In 1995, students began to articulate the need for 'real' Latino Studies on campus. Writing through Nuestra Voz, the first recognized Latino newsletter of the University of Notre Dame, students expressed the clear need for Latino studies classes and programs aimed at exploring experiences of Latinos.
Less than a decade later, the university established the Institute for Latino Studies. In the 1999-2000 academic year, the establishment of the Institute for Latino Studies and the implementation of an academic program address students' hopes that future generations would "join endeavors to advance the position of Latinos at Notre Dame."
As the Institute celebrates its 25th anniversary, the academic program stands as a testament to the enduring vision of its founders and the dedication of its director, faculty, and students. The continued growth and success of the Latino Studies program ensures that the voices and experiences of Latinos are integral to the fabric of the University of Notre Dame.
Learn more about ILS' Academic Programs
Transformative leadership
ILS prepares the future of undergraduate and graduate students as transformative leaders with a depth of understanding about the capacity of Latino communities to enrich all aspects of American society. At ILS, students interact with formative programs and opportunities such as the Latino Studies Scholars Program (LSSP), the Cross-Cultural Leadership Program (CCLP), and the Transformative Latino Leadership Lecture Series, to name some of the most lauded Institute initiatives.
Learn more about ILS Leadership Initiatives.
Partnering with community
ILS forms partnerships with student groups, University departments, and local human services agencies that serve Latino communities. These collaborations empower all involved to make informed decisions as to what kind of a country we want to leave to our children and grandchildren.
Learn more about ILS' Community Engagement.
Leading spiritual initiatives
The Institute for Latino Studies plays a crucial role in advancing awareness of Latino Catholics who make up more than half of the Catholics in the United States. For two decades, the Institute has led various initiatives and events to foster spiritual growth and understanding of Latino spirituality.
Learn more about ILS' Spirituality Initiatives.
