90 years on, the Ladies of Notre Dame continues to thrive, serve community

The Ladies of Notre Dame is an organization that has evolved over the years. In the beginning, it was a group of faculty wives who welcomed new faculty and families to the university and South Bend. To many women, the Ladies provided multi-layered support in a new city.

The Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh praised the organization with a note in 1975: “May I also say that while always a modest organization, the Ladies have contributed more than anyone will ever know to the welfare of this community.”

Longtime member Elaine Nicgorski said the Ladies were her family when she and her husband Walter moved to the Notre Dame community. That was 60 years ago. She remains close to this university family.

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Back in the day, the early society pages of The Tribune featured the Ladies at teas and lunches. Those were the days when many societies and sororities had a chance to be in the newspaper.

Today, members are active in the community and with organizations such as A Rosie Place for Children, St. Margaret’s House, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Food Bank of Northern Indiana and Cultivate Food Rescue. The Ladies also have interest groups such as playgroups, hiking, tutoring and cooking.

The Ladies group is now celebrating the 90th anniversary of its founding in 1934. Long-time member Mary Lou Mullen said, “This is a huge milestone, as women's roles have evolved over the past 90 years. We share great pride in our 90 years of longevity.”

Today's 194 members include a diverse group of women from Notre Dame, Saint Mary’s College and Holy Cross College and the community, Mary Lou said. “Some are active and retired female faculty members, staff. Other members are community volunteers, engaging in work for our local not-for-profits. We also attain college scholarship funds for local students, and we enjoy social events, including hiking in the St. Joseph County Parks.”

Back in 1934, the university grew and more faculty were hired. The suggestion was presented that a women’s group be established. Several weeks later, bylaws were written and the LND started. Tuesdays were chosen for meetings because that was a light day for faculty and the men could babysit.

The group has had several celebrations for this anniversary. The big event will be April 28 at the Morris Park Country Club. The theme is Runway Through Time and will feature fashions through the years from the Casaday Costume Company. The Ladies of Notre Dame members will be the models. Linda Przybyszewski, a professor of history and law at Notre Dame, will comment on the fashions.

Linda is a master hat and dressmaker. She collects pattern books and is the author of the “The Lost Art of Dress: The Women Who Once Made America Stylish.”

On a recent morning, six members gathered to talk about the importance of the organization to Notre Dame, the community and the history. Felicia Caponigri is a third-generation member. Her grandmother, Winifred, was active in programming and administration. “Before women taught at Notre Dame, the faculty wives often had degrees and a variety of interests. There were discussions and panels to continue learning. As women, it is important to build on friendships.”

Addie Cashore said the social aspects are valid and important, but there are broader interests now.

Club president Marcie Benjamin calls the connections important. The time together is pure and simple networking. Marcie is the wife of a faculty member.

Barbara Ewing moved to South Bend three years ago from Tell City, Ind. She served as mayor and retired from the job. Her daughter is in administration at Notre Dame and suggested she get involved. “I can’t say enough about this group. Friendships, the chance to give back to the community, the academic connections. It has something for everyone.”

“It is a hidden gem” for the community, Felicia said. And the future? “We have had an impact over the years. The intergenerational group has been important to the university and now the community. We hope to welcome new members, continue service and work for the good of others.”

Contact Kathy at kfborl[email protected].

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Notre Dame women's group celebrates 90 years, continues to serve