black and white sketch of University President the Rev. Peter M. Donohue
ILLUSTRATION: PETER JAMES FIELD

LETTER FROM FATHER PETER

Our Common Home

 

Dear Friends,

Looking around our campus, there is no question that we have been blessed with beautiful natural surroundings in which to live, learn and work. In fact, we feel so strongly about the impact of nature on our students’ academic experience that we made it the cover story for this issue of the magazine.

As the Gospel tells us, “To whom much is given, much will be required,” and therefore we take very seriously our responsibility to be stewards of God’s creation and to continue to keep our physical environment–and our entire community–healthy and thriving.

As I begin my 18th year as President, I am constantly reminded that it is the people here at Villanova—our community—that make our University the special place that it is. From my background in theatre, I know well that the key to a successful production is to acknowledge that every single person involved plays a role–whether they are performing center stage, building the sets, stitching the costumes or executing one of the other myriad tasks that go into what the audience sees.

Here at Villanova, we all have a part to play, and everyone is essential to our success–students, faculty, staff and alumni. We do not take for granted the resources we have, and use them to full advantage to create spaces where we can innovate, engage in dialogue, share ideas and create community.

In an ever-changing world, I am grateful for the constants at Villanova–our vibrant student body, our world-class faculty, our dedicated staff, our steadfast alumni and our stunning campus. Together, they are ensuring a very bright future for Villanova.

Sincerely,

Signature of Peter M. Donohue OSA

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

President

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