Catholic University of Croatia Expands Agreement with the University of Notre Dame and Hosts Student Volunteers

The Catholic University of Croatia (CUC) has signed a new agreement with the University of Notre Dame in the United States. While previous cooperation included the Nanovic Institute for European Studies and the Ethics Technology Lab, this agreement opens new opportunities and avenues for further collaboration.

As part of this partnership, CUC hosted four volunteer students: Kaylee Fitzsimmons, Margaret Lefere, Stephania Sanchez, and Maria Fernanda Brenner. They spent eight weeks in Zagreb volunteering at CUC and at the St. Francis House operated by Caritas of the Archdiocese of Zagreb in Vugrovec, under the mentorship of CUC alumna Marija Stanešić. Their stay was part of the international cooperation between the two universities through the Serving (in) Europe program, which is conducted annually by the Nanovic Institute for European Studies.

During their stay, the students contributed to the work of the Service for International Cooperation and Mobility Programs and participated in numerous events. They also had the opportunity to meet with University Rector Professor Željko Tanjić, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation Professor Jasna Ćurković Nimac, and Vice-Rector for University Quality, Identity, and Mission Professor Ante Crnčević.

Teaching Assistant Matea Vidulić from the University Department of Communication Studies conducted a workshop introducing the students to Croatian customs, tradition, cultural heritage, and daily life. The visiting students also recorded a podcast with graduate communication studies students Mihaela Dodić and Iva Marić, where they discussed their impressions of the workshop alongside the challenges and benefits of exploring new cultures. They shared their experiences of staying in Croatia, emphasizing how such encounters foster mutual understanding and break down stereotypes. Simultaneously, they volunteered daily at the St. Francis House in Vugrovec, spending time with children without adequate parental care through games, creative workshops, and social activities.

"Although we were thousands of miles away from our families, we found a new one at the Catholic University of Croatia. The warm welcome, the everyday cordiality of the staff and students, and the genuine sense of acceptance made this experience unforgettable," highlighted Kaylee.

Stephania shared a similar impression, concluding that daily life at CUC best demonstrated the values promoted by the university:

"From day one, it was clear how excited everyone was to host us. At every turn, we felt hospitality, generosity, and Christian love in action. CUC is not just a place of study—it is a community that truly lives its values."

The students particularly emphasized how impressed they were by the atmosphere of togetherness at the University, as well as the dedication of the faculty and staff to the students:

"CUC may not be the largest university, but what it might lack in size, it more than makes up for in quality. Modern facilities, a renovated library, a new student restaurant, and above all, the people who work here bear witness to a commitment to excellence and the holistic development of students," they shared.

Beyond their work at the University, the students experienced Croatian culture through numerous activities—ranging from attending the final student Te Deum gathering and university Mass to workshops on Croatian culture and gastronomy. They were especially thrilled by the openness of Croatian students, who eagerly introduced them to Zagreb, local customs, and favorite spots.

The students noted that their volunteering experience with Caritas would permanently shape their personal and professional development:

"The children in Vugrovec taught us resilience, joy, and unconditional kindness. We are returning home with a deeper understanding of what it means to serve others, build relationships, and be present in people's lives. It is an experience we will carry with us for a lifetime," they expressed.

At the conclusion of their stay, they agreed that they will remember Croatia, CUC, and Caritas as places where they experienced true community, friendship, and hospitality.