Founding of the John Cardinal O'Hara Society

In 1921, the University of Notre Dame established the College of Foreign and Domestic Commerce, thanks to the perseverance and vision of a young priest—the Rev. John Francis O'Hara, C.S.C.

"The primary function of commerce is service to man­kind. Business has a code of ethics based very largely on divine principles. When this code is followed, commerce can and does advance civilization," O'Hara wrote in an essay in 1923.

The vision of Cardinal O'Hara, the College's first dean—values-oriented curriculum, ethics, ideals and innovation—serves as the foundation of our commitment to Ask
More of Business™. We ask the Mendoza community to uphold the legacy of Cardinal O'Hara and to consider its role in developing individual integrity, in preparing mind and spirit to be an integral part of effective organizations, and in contributing to the greater good.

The John Cardinal O'Hara Society, the MBA giving society that bears the name of the only Holy Cross priest to be elevated to cardinal, is a testament to his visionary spirit and principled leadership. The Society recognizes alumni and friends of the Mendoza College of Business who make significant annual contributions to support the ongoing success of the MBA and Executive MBA programs.

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For more information about the O'Hara Society, contact Jim Cunningham at (574) 631-4303 or visit the O'Hara Society Web site. Gifts to the John Cardinal O'Hara Society support MBA and Executive MBA program initiatives including fellowships for deserving students.