Fr. Theodore M. Hesburgh, R.I.P.

Not just my own University of Notre Dame, but also American higher education and, in many ways, the country has lost a truly great and really good man, "Fr. Ted" Hesburgh.  You can learn a lot more about his work and life here.   And, the Washington Post's obituary is here.

Fr. Hesburgh was retired by the time I arrived at Notre Dame, but I did have the chance to meet and talk with him several times, including in connection with the University's education-reform efforts.  I remember him expressing surprise, and a bit of irritation, when I told him back in 2000 that vouchers and school-choice were still controversial and politically challenging.  "I thought L.B.J. and I took care of that back in 1965!", he said.  "There are a few details still being worked out," I assured him.  God bless Fr. Ted.