Father Dowd tests positive for COVID before Notre Dame inauguration events

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The University of Notre Dame announced Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C. tested positive for COVID on Thursday after having mild cold symptoms earlier in the week.

Starting on Wednesday, Notre Dame began a series of events for the inauguration of Father Dowd as the 18th president of the university. The events will continue through Friday.

University officials say based on medical advice and in an abundance of caution, Father Dowd will likely wear a mask when near others indoors for the remainder inauguration events.

Officials say minor modifications will also be made to the event programming.

Besides the previously mentioned symptoms, officials say Father Dowd feels fine and looks forward to the Inauguration events.