Institute of Notre Dame of Baltimore: A Pillar of Education and Empowerment in Maryland

Founded in 1847, the Institute of Notre Dame of Baltimore, Maryland, has served as a beacon of academic excellence and female empowerment for over 175 years. With its rich history, dedicated faculty, and vibrant student body, the institute continues to shape the lives of countless young women.

A Legacy of Inspiring Leaders

Throughout its illustrious history, the Institute of Notre Dame has been graced by exceptional leaders who have guided its mission and fostered a culture of intellectual inquiry. Notable figures include:

Mother M. Catherine Spalding, founder and first superior, who established the institute’s unwavering commitment to academic rigor and social justice.
Sister Mary Alethia McGrath, a renowned educator and writer, who served as president for over 30 years and transformed the institute into a leading liberal arts college.
Sister Kathleen Feeley, the current president, who has dedicated herself to preserving the institute’s legacy while embracing innovation and empowering the next generation of female leaders.

A Rigorous Curriculum for Academic Excellence

The Institute of Notre Dame offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to cultivate critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and academic achievement. Its undergraduate programs span a wide range of disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities: Explore the classics of literature, history, philosophy, and the arts.
Natural Sciences and Mathematics: Delve into the fundamentals of biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and computer science.
Social Sciences: Gain insights into sociology, psychology, economics, and political science.
Interdisciplinary Programs: Combine disciplines to create unique majors, such as American Studies, Environmental Studies, and Women’s and Gender Studies.

A Supportive Environment for Student Success

Beyond academic pursuits, the Institute of Notre Dame fosters a nurturing and supportive environment for its students. It offers a wide range of support services, including:

Academic Advising: Dedicated faculty members provide guidance and mentoring to help students navigate their academic journey.
Counseling and Wellness Services: Licensed counselors offer confidential support for students facing academic, personal, or emotional challenges.
Career Services: A dedicated staff helps students prepare for their futures through career counseling, resume building, and networking opportunities.
Student Life: A vibrant campus community offers a variety of clubs, organizations, and social events, fostering a sense of belonging and engagement.

Empowering Women for a Changing World

The Institute of Notre Dame is deeply committed to empowering women to make a positive impact on the world. Through its signature program, the Center for Women in the Professions, the institute prepares women for leadership roles in various fields, including law, medicine, business, and education.

Leadership Development: The institute provides mentorship opportunities, workshops, and networking events to develop leadership skills.
Research and Outreach: Students engage in research projects and community outreach initiatives that address gender-related issues.
Mentoring and Internships: Partnerships with professional organizations provide students with invaluable mentoring and internship experiences.

Notable Alumni: Making a Difference in the World

The Institute of Notre Dame has produced a distinguished body of alumnae who have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields. Notable graduates include:

Dr. Jane Murphy, ’69: Pioneering hematologist and oncologist
Judge Rita C. Davidson, ’76: Associate Judge of the Maryland Court of Appeals
Dr. Anita Allen, ’81: Renowned legal scholar and activist
Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, ’93: Surgeon General of the United States

Benchmarking Success

The Institute of Notre Dame consistently ranks among the top liberal arts colleges in the nation, according to respected organizations such as U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review. In recent years, the institute has been recognized for its:

Academic excellence
Student support
Campus life
Commitment to diversity and inclusion

Breaking Barriers with Innovation

The Institute of Notre Dame is constantly exploring new ways to enhance the student experience and address emerging challenges. Its innovative initiatives include:

The “Flourish” Program: A comprehensive wellness program that promotes students’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
The “Data Science Minor”: An interdisciplinary program that prepares students for the growing field of data analytics.
The “Community Engagement Center”: A hub for students to engage in service learning, volunteerism, and social justice initiatives.

Addressing Common Pain Points

The Institute of Notre Dame understands the challenges that students face in today’s competitive environment. It proactively addresses common pain points through:

Personalized Advising: Students receive individualized attention and guidance to help them navigate academic and career decisions.
Financial Aid: The institute offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs.
Tutoring and Learning Support: Dedicated tutors and learning centers provide additional support for students who need extra assistance.

Motivations for Choosing the Institute of Notre Dame

Academic Excellence: The institute’s rigorous curriculum and dedicated faculty provide a foundation for academic success.
Student Support: The institute’s supportive environment and comprehensive student services foster a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Leadership Development: The institute’s commitment to women’s leadership prepares students for influential roles in society.
Career Prospects: The institute’s alumni network and career services provide invaluable resources for graduates seeking employment and professional advancement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the acceptance rate for the Institute of Notre Dame?
A: The acceptance rate for the Institute of Notre Dame is approximately 65%.

Q: What is the average class size?
A: The average class size at the Institute of Notre Dame is 15-20 students.

Q: Does the institute offer graduate programs?
A: Yes, the Institute of Notre Dame offers a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Master of Science in Data Analytics.

Q: What is the tuition cost?
A: The tuition cost for the Institute of Notre Dame is approximately $40,000 per year.

Q: What is the student-to-faculty ratio?
A: The student-to-faculty ratio at the Institute of Notre Dame is 10:1.

Q: What is the endowment size of the institute?
A: The endowment size of the Institute of Notre Dame is approximately $200 million.