Heather Reynolds
When Heather Reynolds first met her daughter, Olive, in Taiwan, everything changed. Through motherhood, Heather’s drive to help end poverty became a deeply personal calling that ultimately led her to the role of a lifetime at Notre Dame.
“As she spoke, I felt my heart break and grow at once. Olive’s birth family loved her deeply, but poverty kept them from giving her the life they wanted. At that moment, I knew my commitment to ending poverty had to be lifelong. I had spent years fighting poverty’s effects, but this experience transformed my drive into something even deeper: a belief that our faith calls us not only to help individuals but to address poverty’s root causes, reshaping systems for lasting change.”
This Advent season reminds us of Jesus, who was born to a poor family and in humble circumstances. Just as his birth reshaped how we experience faith and love, we are called to create change that echoes beyond the individual, impacting systems and communities.
So, as we reflect on this season, consider how each of us might serve as an instrument of lasting change, working together to bring hope and dignity to those who need it most.
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May God continue to bless you, your family and the important work you are doing at Notre Dame.
Ms. Murphy, by any chance might you be the mom of Conor Murphy, class of ‘02?
Thank you for your story. I wait on you often at Rohr’s and so appreciate knowing you a little bit more. Such an inspiring message. And again, thank you!
Thank you for this story! I admit it brought tears to my eyes. May the grace and peace of Christ be with your family always ❤️
Heather’s story is very compelling. Delighted to hear that this program is alive and well on the campus. I would love to know more about this program.
Such a beautiful story and message.
Thank you Heather for sharing this beautiful, touching story. And thank you for your commitment to the life-changing work that you do to lift people out of poverty. Everyone deserves the chance to live a life where they feel hope and love.
What a great and inspirational story. How can I learn more about LEO ?
You can learn more about LEO at https://leo.nd.edu/ !
Thank you for a awesome story. May God Bless your family. Happy Holidays…Go IRISH!!!!
Wonderful, inspiring story. I’m happy for you, your husband, and especially Olive. I’m also struck by your deep commitment to end poverty through the Leo program. I noted the contact information for Leo in a previous message, and like that reader I think I would like to get in touch with you. Keep up the great work.
Thank you Heather for your wonderful & so important service.
ND’72
One person can change the world, you were that person for your sweet daughter Olive. What a gift. God bless you for your dedication to end poverty.
Heather, thank you for sharing this beautiful story. Olive is truly a gift and your dedication to end poverty is a blessing for all. Notre Dame is such a special University and the perfect partner for your mission!
Your story has inspired me. You are not only a doer of the word, you work to help other doers be even more effective.
I am sure that your daughter’s birth mother had no idea what an effect on the world her one decision would make.
Thanks to both of you for your actions.
Beautiful story for today’s reflection-thank you for sharing! I’ve not heard about LEO at ND, but it sounds like a wonderful thing to have there, and they are fortunate to have you at the helm. God bless you and your efforts to end poverty. Merry Christmas to you and your lovely family:)
Amazing story! You are doing great work Heather. God Bless you and your family.
As an adoptee, your story meant the world to me. Thank you for all the work you do to heal our world. God bless you and your adorable family.
Love this inspirational reflection and your enthusiasm.
Thank you for a truly uplifting and hopeful story…God’s blessings to you and LEO.