Holy Cross College will celebrate the 57th Commencement at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 18, 2024 on the Holy Cross College campus. The College is pleased to confer honorary degrees to: Brother James Leik, C.S.C., Terry McFadden, and Pamela Veldman.
Brother James Leik, C.S.C., has had a distinguished multi-decade career at Holy Cross College, Notre Dame, Indiana. Since co-founding the college in 1967, he has been pivotal in its development, initially teaching economics and business law, and later serving as both Corporate Treasurer and Director of Institutional Advancement. His leadership helped navigate significant transitions, including acting as President after the passing of co-founder Brother John Driscoll. Brother James, who has been with the Congregation of Holy Cross since 1957, also holds an MBA from the University of Notre Dame and an MA in Economics from the University of Illinois. His extensive academic and practical experience includes serving in the U.S. Air Force and teaching at various high schools. Brother James’s lifelong dedication to education and the Holy Cross mission is underscored by his personal commitment to his faith and educational service.
Terry McFadden, a fixture in Michiana’s broadcast journalism, retired from WNDU-TV on March 1, 2024, after a distinguished career. Known for his direct reporting style, Terry became a prominent voice in the community since his start in 1982. His journalistic integrity and engagement with local affairs earned him the region’s deep respect and multiple journalism awards, including the esteemed Edward R. Murrow Award. A South Bend native, Terry was educated at St. Joseph’s Grade School, St. Joseph’s High School, and Holy Cross College, before obtaining a BA in history and an MA in communications from the University of Notre Dame. Terry McFadden’s life extends far beyond his notable journalism career. Together with his wife Laurie Plant, a distinguished journalist and current Director of Student Media at Notre Dame, they deeply value their family life, raising three sons who are all Notre Dame graduates. At Holy Cross College, Terry’s contributions are well-remembered and diverse. He not only worked in the campus kitchen but also played an active role in Brother Tom Moser’s collegiate labor crew, contributing to several campus beautification projects. This involvement is part of a broader family tradition of deep ties to Holy Cross, a legacy shared with his mother and all four siblings, who also attended the college.
Pam Veldman, a South Bend native, co-founded Surestep and Transcend Orthotics & Prosthetics, significantly impacting pediatric healthcare. Her leadership expanded her family business from four to over 200 employees, reinforcing a culture of innovation and positivity. Educated at Holy Cross College with degrees in humanities and psychology, Pam leveraged her background to enhance her business operations and employee relations. She is currently the Director of Special Projects at Hanger Clinic, where she continues to influence the industry. Under Pam’s leadership, her company developed products that drastically improve mobility for children, making it possible for them to walk, run, and jump. This achievement is what she regards as her greatest professional success. In 2016, Pam and her husband Bernie transitioned their company to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, ensuring that those who contributed to the company’s success became its owners. Pam’s commitment extends beyond business. She is a devoted member of her local parish, serves as the vice president of the South Bend-Elkhart Chapter of Legatus, and sits on the Beacon Health Foundation board. Her family, including five children and five grandchildren, remains her greatest pride.