A prominent California Catholic university selected former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi as its 2026 commencement speaker for the university’s 175th anniversary, stating she “reflects the very values” of the institution — despite her blatant support of abortion.
Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU) recently announced in a press release that Pelosi will serve as the commencement ceremony speaker May 2.
Beth Martin, the university’s president, said Pelosi’s political career reflects the legacy of the founding Sisters of Notre Dame De Namur, adding that her “advocacy for justice” is an example of “faith-inspired” education.
“[Pelosi’s] lifelong commitment to public service, leadership, and advocacy for justice reflects the very values that define an NDNU education and the enduring legacy of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur,” Martin said. “During this 175th anniversary year of the Sisters in California, her presence powerfully affirms the impact of faith-inspired education on the world.”
NDNU’s release also said the institution is rooted in promoting “social justice” and the “common good,” noting its mission is shaped by the founding Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, who emphasize education, service, and outreach to the poor.
Martin also described Pelosi as one of the “most influential leaders in American history.”
In 2024, Pelosi, a self-identified devout Roman Catholic, described abortion as a constitutional right, calling abortion bans “unconscionable” and the Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade “devastating.”
As Zeale News previously reported, San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone denied Pelosi the Eucharist in her home diocese due to her vehement support of abortion.
Pelosi is also a recipient of Planned Parenthood’s Margaret Sanger Award, the abortion giant's highest honor recognizing “outstanding contributions to the reproductive health and rights movement.”