Through the Lens: The O'Hara Commons

 

What’s in a name? Everything, for the Mendoza College of Business’ new addition.

In early August, the John Francis Cardinal O’Hara, C.S.C., Commons was abuzz with workers putting the finishing touches on the Mendoza College of Business’ new three-story building.

In a matter of days, students would be flowing through this new space, making it part of their daily rhythm at Notre Dame. As its name suggests, the 28,000-square-foot O’Hara Commons is designed as a place to gather, collaborate and build community. More than a shared space, it reflects Cardinal O’Hara’s enduring vision that business flourishes when it serves others and strengthens the common good.

During the open house in August, Dean Martijn Cremers spoke on the legacy of Cardinal O’Hara and the naming of the new space: “The O’Hara Commons is more than the College’s newest building. It is a place for community — reflecting Cardinal O’Hara’s conviction that business exists in service to humanity and that great ideas and great leaders are formed together.”

 

 

The John Francis Cardinal O’Hara, C.S.C., Auditorium, below top-left, was designed so that students are in close proximity to the professor, encouraging interaction and a sense of connection. The state-of-the-art, 136-seat classroom and event space features dual 178-inch direct-view LED displays that provide clear, immersive viewing from every seat.

The first-floor O’Hara Commons student lounge, below top-right, is a key feature of the new addition. The 2,700-square-foot space features large farm tables and comfortable seating to encourage students to gather for studying, socializing and unwinding. Artwork created especially for the new addition celebrates the life of founding dean, John Francis Cardinal O’Hara, C.S.C., including bas-relief panels and a bust of the cardinal.

 

Photos by Matt Cashore (ND ’94) and Michael Caterina

The second and third floors feature new offices for faculty and doctoral students, plus five dedicated rooms ideal for team projects, group meetings and hands-on learning with seating of eight to 12 students each. Two flexible classrooms are designed for adaptable instruction, each seating 34 to 48 students. Two unique features of the building are extensive skylights that bring natural light to the second floor and a third-floor terrace with a view to the north of Notre Dame’s iconic landmarks — the Fighting Irish Football Stadium, the Basilica, the Hesburgh Library and the Golden Dome.

2026 Magazine Issue