Welcome to Humans of Notre Dame, a storytelling project born from a simple yet profound love for photography and a deep admiration for the people who make up the Notre Dame community.
This initiative began as part of my Maker’s Project for the Multimedia Writing and Rhetoric course, where I wanted to explore the power of visual and written narratives to capture the spirit of belonging and diversity within our university. Inspired by the human connections we often overlook in our busy routines, and by the ongoing photography project “Humans of New York” by Brandon Stanton, this project aims to highlight the unique stories, dreams, and experiences of the individuals who bring life to Notre Dame’s iconic campus.
I have always seen photography as a sort of “lens” for understanding the world—capturing moments, emotions, and the essence of people. With Humans of Notre Dame, I hope to blend this passion with a mission to foster empathy and connection by sharing authentic glimpses into the lives of those around us, with a special mission to honor diversity on campus.
Each story you find here is a piece of what makes Notre Dame extraordinary: students, faculty, staff, and visitors whose lives weave together to form the fabric of our community. By amplifying their voices, my goal is to remind us all of the shared humanity that binds us, even in our differences.
-Maria Jose Molina
Founder, Humans of Notre Dame
