Villanova University Introduces the Cabrini Campus: A New Era of Expansion and Tradition
The Cabrini Campus honors a shared legacy while creating new opportunities for generations of Villanovans
VILLANOVA, Pa. (August 10, 2026) – Villanova University proudly unveils its latest milestone with the inauguration of the Cabrini Campus, signifying a pivotal expansion in its storied 184-year history. Situated on 112 acres in Radnor, Pa., this new campus enriches the University’s Augustinian Catholic mission, encompassing academics, residence, spirituality, dining, and recreation, thereby enhancing the holistic educational experience.
The transition of Cabrini Campus into Villanova University was finalized in June 2024, following an agreement with Cabrini University and the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. After two years of meticulous planning and enhancement, the campus now seamlessly integrates students, faculty, and staff into the Villanova community.
“The opening of the Cabrini Campus is significant milestone in our University history,” stated University President the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD. “As Villanova begins this new chapter, we do so with deep respect for Cabrini’s history, mission and the people who shaped it. The Cabrini Campus will honor the remarkable legacy entrusted to us while expanding our mission in ways that will serve students and society for decades to come.”
Aligned with Villanova’s Strategic Plan, Rooted. Restless., the Cabrini Campus fosters academic innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. It enhances the University’s capacity to provide education rooted in the Augustinian Catholic principles of Veritas, Unitas, and Caritas, while offering additional resources for teaching, research, and community engagement.
Academic Excellence at Cabrini Campus
The Cabrini Campus is set to be the new hub for several undergraduate and graduate programs, including the Department of Ethics, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Department of Education and Counseling, and select facilities in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Moreover, it will host certain graduate programs from the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing.
“The Cabrini Campus enhances Villanova’s ability to deliver an exceptional academic experience while positioning the University for continued evolution and innovation,” remarked Provost Patrick G. Maggitti, PhD. “These new academic facilities strengthen our teaching and research enterprise, create opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and provide the space necessary to advance key academic priorities for years to come.”
The academic infrastructure includes nearly 30 classrooms, specialized nursing simulation areas, cutting-edge research labs, and a vivarium for psychological and brain sciences research. Additionally, it offers collaborative learning settings and ample student study spaces, promoting both undergraduate and graduate education. The Mother Cabrini Institute on Immigration is also part of the campus, perpetuating the University’s mission while honoring the legacy of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini.
Enriching Student and Community Life
In addition to academics, the Cabrini Campus offers a lively mix of residential, dining, recreational, and spiritual experiences. It accommodates around 900 students, predominantly sophomores, across six residence halls and an apartment-style building, including a dedicated residence for student veterans.
Central to campus life, the renovated student center offers gathering spots, a lounge, made-to-order dining, a coffee shop, convenience store, and University Shop. Spiritual life is integral to the campus experience, with Sacred Heart Chapel hosting regular liturgical events.
The Dixon Center and Nerney Pavilion serve as a 100,000-square-foot recreational hub, featuring an indoor pool, basketball courts, a fitness center, and more. Outdoor amenities include courts, playing fields, and a nature trail, with Villanova Field Hockey establishing its home at the Cabrini Campus.
Transportation between the Cabrini and Villanova campuses is facilitated by dedicated shuttle routes within the University’s Wildcat Shuttle system.
Honoring a Legacy
The revitalized Cabrini Campus reflects the commitment to uphold St. Frances Xavier Cabrini’s heritage and Catholic educational traditions. Building names honor Mother Cabrini, St. Augustine, and the Augustinian tradition, with spaces like Cascia Hall and Tagaste Hall paying tribute to these figures.
“We are honored to serve as stewards of this campus and the legacy it represents,” said Father Donohue. “The Villanova University Cabrini Campus stands as both a tribute to the past and an investment in the future—a place where students have learned, grown, and flourished for generations, and will do so for many more.”
Exterior of the Iadarola Center
Interior of the Dixon Center
Statue of Mother Cabrini on the Villanova University Cabrini Campus
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