RACINE, Wis. – Joe Smith tells TMJ4 there are a few big reasons why he decided to go back to school and get his Executive MBA from Notre Dame.

“It’s about this community and this network that Notre Dame has built since its inception and being a part of something bigger than myself and giving back to our communities and our loved ones,” Smith said.

The Racine County resident says those qualities were on full display following Wednesday’s terrorist attack in New Orleans, where hundreds of Fighting Irish fans were gathered for the Sugar Bowl.

When Smith heard the terrible news, he told TMJ4 that he immediately thought of his friends and classmates who were there.

Watch: Notre Dame student describes ‘Fighting Irish’ response to New Orleans attack

A local Notre Dame student describes the Fighting Irish’s response to the attack in New Orleans

“We had contacted everyone in our class and surrounding classes, everyone we knew, and made sure they came home because we knew friends and family would also be worried about them,” Smith said.

After ensuring that those he knew were safe, his concerns turned to the southern community that had been so tragically affected.

“First and foremost, my thoughts went back to New Orleans and the community to ensure everyone was safe.”

After the Sugar Bowl was postponed for a day, the Notre Dame community in New Orleans held a service Thursday morning to encourage those injured in the attack – something Smith said shows support for the Fighting Irish.

“It’s really special to be there and see it,” Smith said.

Despite the attack, many of his classmates chose to stay and support their alma mater in the College Football Playoff.

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