Poverty // Stories // We Are ND // University of Notre Dame

JoAnn Chávez ’86, ’90 J.D.

Next Gen

Growing up in the barrio of Detroit, JoAnn Chávez ’86, ’90 J.D. could have found herself trapped in the cycle of poverty and addiction that surrounded her. But when she made her way to Notre Dame, she was determined to write her own narrative—not in spite of her upbringing, but because of it.

Celebrating Our Hispanic Alumni

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Notre Dame Alumni Association looks back at some of our outstanding Hispanic alumni who have dedicated their professional and personal lives towards being a force for good in the world.

Celebrating Our Black Alumni

In honor of Black History Month, this We Are ND story collection highlights just a handful of the many Black Alumni of Notre Dame who have used their talents and commitment to make a positive impact on the world.

Dr. Jim O’Connell ’70

Street Doctor

What began as only a yearlong commitment, launched a lifelong passion for Dr. Jim O’Connell ’70.

Since 1985, when he helped found the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), Dr. O’Connell has been dedicated to providing comprehensive medical care for the homeless population in his community.

Monica Macek '95

Returning Home to Build for the Future

When Monica Macek ’95 left her home on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota to attend Notre Dame, she didn’t think she’d be going back.

Serving Around the World

When the Notre Dame Alumni Association launched its first Global Day of Service in 2023, it was with the belief that an international network of alumni, parents, and friends had the power to collectively make a positive impact the world over.

Rachel Wallace '17

Working Towards Ending Systemic Racial and Economic Injustice

Little did Rachel Wallace '17 know that a formative experience through the Center for Social Concerns would form the cornerstone of her work today as the Interim Deputy Director at the Policy Advocacy Clinic at UC Berkeley.

Claire Sloss '09

Combating Homelessness Through Communications and Service

Claire Sloss '09 has made a career serving the people experiencing homelessness in Chicago.

Rachel Svetanoff '15 M.S.

Empathy Drives Alumna in Global Health Adventures

Life experiences fuel alumna's drive to provide basic necessities to those without.

John Gallo '83

Representing the Least Among Us

Alum spends his second act representing the poor and underserved as head of Legal Aid Chicago.