Charles L. O'Donnell

The Reverend Charles O'Donnell C.S.C.
11th President of the University of Notre Dame
In office 1928–1934
Preceded by	Matthew J. Walsh
Succeeded by	John Francis O'Hara
Personal details
Born	(1884-11-15)November 15, 1884 Greenfield, Indiana
Died	June 4, 1934(1934-06-04) (aged 49) Notre Dame, Indiana
Alma mater	The Catholic University of America, University of Notre Dame

The Rev. Charles L. O'Donnell, C.S.C. (Nov. 15, 1884- Jun. 4, 1934) was an American Catholic priest, military chaplain of the US Army and President of the University of Notre Dame from 1928 to 1934. He served as military chaplain in World War I, and his helmet is still hanging on the east door in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

President of the University of Notre Dame

Rev. O'Donnell appreciated both the academic vision and improvements of Cavanaugh and Burns and the practical consideration of Walsh, who greatly expanded facilities, and combined both aspects during his presidency. In 1929 he built the Notre Dame Stadium. He also restored Sacred Heart Church and constructed the law school building. In 1931 construction of Alumni and Dillon were begun, in addition to the Cushing Hall of Engineering and a new heating plant. This rapid expansion, which cost the University more than $2,800,000, was made possible in large part through football revenues. Academically, O'Donnell eliminated in 1929 the school for Minims, which created more room for college students. He actively sought distinguished lecturers throughout his presidency and attracted William Butler Yeats to visit campus. O'Donnell also established a new seal for the University, because he felt that the old one was indistinguishable from the seal of the Holy Cross order.

Awards

Order of the Crown (Italy) (Italian language: Ordine della Corona d'Italia )

External sources

• http://archives.nd.edu/hope/hope28.htm
• http://magazine.nd.edu/news/14882-time-and-again-an-appreciation-of-charles-l-o-donnell-csc/
• https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/45765256