Allison Barkasy

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Major: History

Minors: Real Estate & Business Economics

Graduating Class Year: 2027

Hometown: Oxford, PA

On-Campus Dorm: Pasquerilla West Hall

What do you do in your free time? "In my free time, I like going on walks around campus, spending time with friends, and watching just about any Philly or Notre Dame sport. I’m also a big foodie, so I love trying new restaurants!"

What other extracurricular activities are you inolved in? "Outside of CPI, I serve on the board of editors for the Notre Dame Historical Review, Notre Dame’s history journal. Additionally, I’m involved in the Kellogg Institute’s Developing Researchers Program, where I work as a research assistant for History and Global Affairs Professor Ted Beatty."

Why CPI? "I’m drawn to CPI because of its focus on stewarding church properties in ways that are socially, environmentally, and ethically responsible. The projects align closely with my interests in real estate’s social impact and the historical relevance of property development and reuse."

What CPI project has been most interesting? "The project I’ve found most interesting is a proposed article for the U.S. Catholic Historian that examines what happens to Catholic church properties in Chicago after they close or merge. I’ve been helping build a baseline of parishes and then tracing what became of them, whether they were merged, closed, reused, or redeveloped. It’s been interesting to see how these spaces evolve and to consider what that means for neighborhoods, history, and the Church’s presence in the city."

What are your career aspirations? "I hope to pursue a career in real estate development and investment, with a focus on projects that advance sustainability and positive social outcomes. Long-term, I’m interested in exploring how development can intersect with historical preservation and ecological responsibility."