[6] The official inauguration took place on 15 January 1877, upon receipt of the papal bull which gave the Catholic University of Lille canonical status.

It highlights the institution's academic and ecclesial character, the tradition in which it is rooted, and the part played by the two northern provinces in its creation.

This workforce is spread over fifty research units in disciplines as diverse as nanoscience, psychology, economics, law, or theology.

For about ten years, Lille Catholic University institutions worked at structuring and strengthening their research activity.

This organization induced structuring of research areas covered by the centers and the faculty of the federation, fostering the emergence of major cross-cutting themes.

They share concern for the betterment of life in contemporary society: responsibilities and risks; ethics, care, and loss of autonomy; energy, housing, environment, and sustainable development; innovation, collective intelligence, and new human interactions.

[21] The Association of University Support (AEU)[22] manages 10 residences and Meurein restaurant serving 5000 meals a day, lunch and dinner.

In addition to the BDE and corporations, schools and faculties of Catho include associations for sports and for humanitarian, cultural, and festive events.

Also, the bars and clubs of Lille, in particular in the Massena district and Henninot room, almost daily receive student parties organized by the BDE or other associations.