2 former University of Notre Dame rectors sexually abused students, report finds

An independent investigation released May 28, 2026, confirmed that two former University of Notre Dame rectors sexually abused students while overseeing residence halls in the 1980s and 1990s. Holy Cross Father Thomas King served as rector of Zahm Hall from 1980 to 1997 and later worked in parishes in the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend and Diocese of Kalamazoo. Holy Cross Father David Porterfield, who died in November 2025, was rector of Sorin Hall in the early 1980s and later assistant rector at Grace Hall before leaving Notre Dame in 1986 due to abuse allegations. The report, led by attorney Helen Cantwell of Debevoise & Plimpton, reviewed 101 interviews and over 1,000 documents, finding both priests exploited their authority to abuse students. Porterfield was later restricted from ministry after further investigations in 2003 and 2011. The report criticized Notre Dame for inconsistent execution in addressing clergy abuse, noting a lack of coordination with the Congregation of Holy Cross. Notre Dame announced a survivors' counseling program offering therapy and mental health services for abuse victims. The university also committed to improving oversight, enhancing communication with the Holy Cross Fathers, and strengthening abuse education and reporting protocols. The investigation was sparked by 2018 complaints about King’s actions in the 1990s. The report highlights broader issues in Catholic institutions, including gaps in records management and communication, which have hindered efforts to prevent abuse. Notre Dame’s president, Holy Cross Father Robert A. Dowd, and board chair John Veihmeyer launched the inquiry in response to the allegations. The findings underscore systemic failures that allowed abuse to persist across decades.