Rev. Gregory J. Boyle, S.J., speaks after receiving the 2017 Laetare Medal, the oldest and most prestigious honor given to American Catholics at Notre Dame's 172nd Commencement Ceremony on May 21, 2017.

"For nearly 30 years, Father Boyle has served men and women who have been incarcerated and involved with gangs, and, in doing so, has helped them to discover the strength and hope necessary to transform their lives,” said Notre Dame’s president, Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C. “Father Boyle’s solidarity with our sisters and brothers at the margins of society offers an inspiring model of faith in action. We are grateful for the witness of his life and honored to bestow this award on him.”