Statement from Paul J. Browne, vice president for public affairs and communications at the University of Notre Dame, on the announcement of Lou Holtz as a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom:
“Lou
Holtz is among America’s greatest college football coaches, leading
Notre Dame to a national championship in 1988. But his contributions off
the field have been equally inspiring, bringing attention and support
to his hometown, alma mater, Catholic Charities, the Women’s Care
Foundation, the Center for the Homeless in South Bend, and other worthy
organizations through his charitable foundation. At Notre Dame, he and
his late wife, Beth, served as research ambassadors, and the players he
molded have added to his legacy through their own contributions through
the Lou’s Lads Foundation. We presented Lou with an honorary degree in
2011 for his service on and off the field to Notre Dame and beyond, and
we join now with his family and many friends in offering our sincere
congratulations on this honor.”
