Pope Leo XIV’s election, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost and a proud alumnus of Villanova University, has sparked a wave of excitement and pride throughout the university community. This historic event has prompted Villanovans to reflect on the deep-rooted Augustinian values that the new pope brings to his role. Here’s a collection of reactions from various members of the Villanova community:
The Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, Villanova University President
Rev. Donohue expressed immense pride upon the election announcement. “When he walked out and said, ‘Roberto Francesco … Cardinale,’ I screamed,” he shared during an appearance on the TODAY Show. He further noted Pope Leo XIV’s global perspective, shaped by his extensive travels and cultural engagements as the Prior General of the Augustinians.
In a separate interview with MSNBC, Rev. Donohue remarked, “It’s an incredible honor for the school, for him and for the Augustinian community,” emphasizing the new pope’s commitment to community building, a core Augustinian principle.
The Rev. Robert Hagan, OSA
As the Prior Provincial at The Augustinian Province of St. Thomas of Villanova, Rev. Hagan described Pope Leo XIV as both a mentor and a brilliant, approachable individual. “You didn’t have to be in his presence very long before you understood how exceptionally bright he is,” he told The Associated Press.
The Rev. Kevin DePrinzio, OSA
Father DePrinzio, Villanova’s Vice President for Mission and Ministry, expressed his excitement to Reuters, comparing the historic moment to Villanova’s athletic triumphs, stating, “We’ve been known for being the NCAA champs at three different times, and we also have a pope now. That’s a whole different level of wow.”
Kevin Hughes
Kevin Hughes, a Professor of Historical Theology at Villanova, highlighted the new pope’s attentive nature and intellect in an Associated Press interview. Hughes noted, “When you’re talking to him, he gives you his full attention…he’s never lost the pastoral touch.”
Jaisy Joseph, PhD
Assistant Professor Jaisy Joseph shared with the Catholic News Agency that the announcement was met with celebrations at Villanova, where “church bells were ringing nonstop,” and the community experienced a range of emotions from shock to joy.
Villanova Students
Villanova students also shared their unique perspectives. Sophomore biology major Kasey Wood mentioned to USA Today how the connection felt personal: “We can relate to him (Pope Leo XIV) in a different way; we can feel like the pope is a little closer to us.”
Meanwhile, freshman Drew Figge remarked on the significance of attending the pope’s alma mater, telling the Catholic News Agency, “It was pure shock in the moment — there’s no other way to put it… It’s really cool to think that we are the only college in the country that had a pope graduate from it, so it really sets us apart.”
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