Central ND News

The University of Mary is preparing to send its largest group yet to the 2025 National March for Life in Washington, D.C. More than 300 students, faculty, and alumni will participate in the event on January 24. The university has a history of involvement with the march, having led it in 2017.

Father Dominic Bouck, university chaplain and director of University Ministry, emphasized the commitment of participants: "Our students and faculty are passionate about the sanctity of life, and it’s beautiful to witness their commitment." He noted that this year marks a record-breaking attendance for the university at the national march.

The pilgrimage will start on January 21 with a Mass at Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel. Participants will travel by bus from Bismarck to Washington, D.C., stopping at Notre Dame for Mass and visiting various sites along the way. They plan to meet with U.S. Senator John Hoeven and attend a conference at Georgetown University.

Emma Thorp, a ministry coordinator leading logistics for the trip, shared her enthusiasm: "The March for Life is a powerful witness to the dignity of life." Samuel Gallagher, a senior student attending his fourth march, expressed hope for continued advocacy despite changes in abortion laws post-Roe v. Wade.

Callie McDonald, another senior student attending for the first time, views this as an important part of her education: "As a nurse, I’ll be on the front lines of caring for and protecting life."

The University of Mary remains committed to advocating for life and dignity through its participation in this event.