Homecoming Weekend Thank You and Recap

October 25, 2021

Dear Members of the Villanova Community,

Homecoming is a wonderful opportunity to welcome our alumni back to campus and to remind them of what makes Villanova, and our community, so special. This past weekend was filled with a variety of activities to commemorate our alumni’s time as students. It was wonderful to see so many alumni and their families renewing friendships and reminiscing about their experiences from their time on campus.

The success of events like Homecoming are the result of the tireless efforts of many around campus. I extend my sincere thanks to the many offices, colleges, schools and departments, under the leadership of University Advancement, that worked together to ensure an enjoyable experience for our guests. You created an overwhelmingly positive experience for our alumni and their families and friends, and I am truly grateful.

This weekend, we also celebrated and honored the significant contributions of two well-known Villanovans. At the most recent meeting of the Villanova University Board of Trustees, the naming of two halls in honor of Rev. George F. Riley, OSA, and Rev. Edmund J. Dobbin, OSA, were unanimously approved.

Rev. George F. Riley, OSA

On Saturday evening, the Augustinian Province of St. Thomas of Villanova’s fund to support the care of elderly and infirm friars was named in Fr. Riley’s honor, a fitting tribute for his numerous contributions to the Augustinian and Villanova community over the past six decades. During his tenure, Fr. Riley touched the hearts and minds of those around him, impacting the University by serving in a variety of important roles—including professor, counselor, advisor and fundraiser. His positive effect in each of these areas can be felt when speaking with the generations of Villanovans, who speak so fondly of Fr. Riley and recall the significant impact he had on their lives.

In recognition of Fr. Riley’s numerous contributions to the University, a building in The Commons will be renamed Riley Hall.

Rev. Edmund J. Dobbin, OSA

The Rev. Edmund J. Dobbin, OSA, served from 1988 to 2006 as the University’s 31st president. During his 18 years as president, Fr. Dobbin guided the Villanova community into the 21st century with an enhanced sense of identity and a reaffirmed commitment to the University's Augustinian Catholic mission. Under his leadership, Villanova saw unprecedented progress and growth. Villanova implemented innovative curricula, dramatically increased the University’s endowment, expanded scholarship funding and faculty endowments, enhanced international programs and collaborations, and planned or completed new buildings or major renovations in each of the colleges and schools.

Villanova’s longest-serving president, Fr. Dobbin strengthened Villanova and fostered a community that continues to be increasingly talented, distinguished and diverse. His legacy of growth and achievement is visible in every aspect of the Villanova educational experience, and his vision led to Villanova’s emergence as one of the nation’s premier Catholic universities.

In recognition of Fr. Dobbin’s significant impact on the Villanova community, a building in The Commons will be renamed Dobbin Hall.

As you can see, it was a very full weekend, with much to celebrate at Villanova. Thanks again to all who played a part.

Sincerely,

Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA
President