“Edward F. Sorin” is a life-sized statue composed of bronze, a favorite material of artist Ernesto Biondi.

and is mounted on top of a pedestal made of Vermont granite that reads “SORIN.” The statue depicts Sorin with a long beard wearing his priestly vestments.

Nostrae Dominae Universitatis Fundatoris Qui apostolicis Virtutibus Clarus Catholicae Americanae Educationis Studiosissimus VIII ID.

In Memory of Edward Sorin, Superior General of the Congregation of the Holy Cross, Founder of the University of Notre Dame, who, renowned for apostolic virtues, most zealous for American Catholic Education, born February 6, 1814, lived for 78 years and ten months, students, alumni, and friends have erected this pledge of their respect and gratitude in the year of salvation regained 1905.

Following his ordination as a priest in the Congregation of Holy Cross, he traveled as a missionary to the United States where he worked in Indiana, what was then considered a very remote area of the nation.

[2] The University of Notre Dame commissioned artist Ernesto Biondi to create the statue in memory of Sorin.

They were followed by the dignified array of graduates and faculty in cap and gown, then the acolytes and ministers, and lastly the members of the community and the visitors.

Then-president of Notre Dame Father John J. Cavanaugh offered a reflection, and then a cord was pulled to reveal the statue.