Villanova Magazine - From The President - Fall 2017

DEAR FRIENDS,

Villanova is in the midst of a transformative period in its history.

Progress is evident throughout the University. Villanova has again distinguished itself as one of the most highly regarded universities in the nation. Our applications are increasing, and we are admitting a higher-achieving student population than ever before. We are attracting internationally recognized faculty—scholars who are shaping the academic experience for our students and further elevating our academic profile. A new pedestrian bridge spans Lancaster Avenue, and soon new residence halls and community spaces will be added to our campus landscape. And our campaign—For the Greater Great: The Villanova Campaign to Ignite Change, which has exceeded $680 million in gifts and pledges—is providing the financial resources to help us realize our vision.

Our national prominence and continued advancement are possible only because of the outstanding contributions of Villanovans—students, faculty, staff, alumni and parents— who ignite change each day on campus and around the world. The University recently lost two such Villanovans with the passing of longtime College of Nursing Dean M. Louise Fitzpatrick, EdD, RN, FAAN, and former Men’s Basketball Head Coach Roland “Rollie” Massimino. Through their leadership and mentorship, both Dean Fitzpatrick and Coach Massimino contributed greatly to Villanova and helped make it the institution that it is today.

Being a leader and a Villanovan also calls us to put our core values into action. I have been extremely pleased to hear that so many have answered the call for aid after the recent hurricanes and other natural disasters. Their service and courage have reached people in desperate need. Their spirit and compassion highlight our common humanity.

In all ways, bound by faith and love, we are united in our Villanova values. As a community, we strengthen each other, and we carry that unity of purpose out into the world.

Together, as the Villanova community proves time and again, we are capable of powerful transformation. And, together, we will lift our University—academically, intellectually, spiritually—to ever greater heights.

Sincerely,

The Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, ’75 CLAS, President