Villanova Celebrates Pope Leo XIV, First Pope Alumnus, with Global Events

Pope Leo XIV with University President the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, on Sept. 14, 2026, at the Vatican.

Villanova University has etched its name in history by becoming the first American institution to have a Pope as an alumnus. On May 8, 2025, Pope Leo XIV, originally known as Robert Prevost, who completed his bachelor’s in mathematics in 1977 from Villanova, was elected as the head of the Catholic Church.

Pope Leo XIV is notable not just for his Villanova roots but also as the first Augustinian friar to rise to the papacy. He has consistently acknowledged his spiritual lineage, remarking in his inaugural papal address, “I am a son of Augustine.” This connection resonates deeply with Villanova, the sole Augustinian Catholic university in the United States, emphasizing the values of Veritas, Unitas, Caritas within its community. The Pope’s ties to Villanova have significantly enhanced the university’s mission on a global stage.

A University Engaged in Global Dialogues

Villanova University actively participates in discussions surrounding Pope Leo XIV’s papacy, leveraging its unique position as his alma mater. The institution has organized numerous academic events and discussions that delve into his leadership and the Catholic Church’s future. Faculty and university centers have also contributed insights on topics pivotal to his papal guidance.

In October, Villanova is set to host the 2026 International Sustainability Conference in Rome. Themed Responding to the Cries of the Earth and the Poor, the conference draws inspiration from both Pope Leo XIV and Pope Francis’s teachings on caring for marginalized communities.

Moreover, the university has introduced the Pope Leo XIV Sustainability Medal. This global accolade honors those working towards a comprehensive vision of sustainability, interlinking environmental care, social justice, and resource stewardship. The inaugural award ceremony will take place on October 13 in Castel Gandolfo, with Pope Leo XIV presenting the medal during Villanova’s International Sustainability Conference.

Flowers and a message that offers hope and prayer for Pope Leo XIV upon his election in 2025

Experiential Learning in Rome

Villanova’s engagement in Rome is further underscored by its study abroad programs. This fall, 135 Villanova students are studying in Italy, with twelve students partaking in the Vatican Internship Program. This initiative, launched in 2003, offers Communication and Computing Sciences majors a semester-long opportunity to intern within various Vatican departments and news outlets.

During the Fall Break from October 12-16, additional courses and programs will immerse students in the Augustinian legacy, Catholic tradition, and the historical depth of Rome.

Augustinian Pellegrinaggio: The Center for Church Management will guide students on a pilgrimage from Milan to Rome, exploring St. Augustine’s life and visiting communities and sites significant to his journey.

Becoming What We Are Not Yet: On Pilgrimage with Augustine: This Humanities course offers insights into St. Augustine’s pilgrimage philosophy and essential virtues, with visits to sites linked to his life and the Augustinian Order.

Rome: City of Emperors, Popes and Saints: A History Department course that delves into Rome’s past, allowing students to visit landmarks associated with its emperors, popes, and saints.

A Celebration of Shared Catholic Heritage

In November, Villanova and the University of Notre Dame will jointly commemorate their shared Catholic heritage in Rome. The Eternal City Tip-Off on November 1 will feature basketball games and a series of events combining academics, sports, and spirituality. Highlights include a private Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica and discussions on the intersection of sports and spirituality.