Villanova University introduces a prestigious accolade aimed at honoring exceptional contributions to sustainability and human development. The Pope Leo XIV Sustainability Medal will debut at the 2026 Villanova International Sustainability Conference in Rome, with the presentation by Pope Leo XIV himself.
Rome, Italy (July 20, 2026) — Villanova University alongside its Office for Sustainability announces the establishment of the Pope Leo XIV Sustainability Medal. This global recognition is intended for those whose leadership has propelled efforts in sustainability, ecological responsibility, and holistic human development.
This Medal acknowledges individuals whose efforts embody a comprehensive approach to sustainability, weaving together environmental care, social justice, and stewardship of resources. It is distinguished by its emphasis on integral ecology, transcending typical technical metrics by focusing on ethical considerations, especially towards marginalized communities. Eligible candidates may hail from any professional realm, selected based on significant contributions towards a sustainable and equitable future.
In October 2026, the inaugural presentation of the Pope Leo XIV Sustainability Medal will take place in Castel Gandolfo, as part of the Villanova International Sustainability Conference titled Responding to the Cries of the Earth and the Poor. Gathering around 300 participants, including scholars, church personnel, and industry leaders, the event aims to transition from discussions to actionable solutions. The award recipient will be revealed in September 2026, prior to the conference at Borgo Laudato Si’ in Castel Gandolfo.
Villanova University President, the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, expressed, “The Pope Leo XIV Sustainability Medal reflects a deeply held belief at Villanova University: that care for our common home and care for one another are inseparable.”
As an Augustinian Catholic institution, Villanova University shares a unique bond with Pope Leo XIV, who graduated from the university with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1977 and received an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree in 2014.
The Medal, a biennial award, underscores Villanova’s steadfast commitment to global sustainability efforts and the promotion of integral ecology. It is a key feature of the university’s International Sustainability Conference agenda.
For the inaugural 2026 award, nominees were evaluated by a selection committee from Villanova’s Sustainability Leadership Council. The committee applied thorough evaluation criteria based on multi-dimensional sustainability standards.
This initiative comes at a time when the interconnectedness of environmental and social issues is increasingly acknowledged. The award embraces a vision of sustainability that encompasses more than environmental conservation, extending to human well-being, social equity, and the responsibility to future generations.
The conference will be held at both the Patristicum in Rome and Borgo Laudato Si’ in Castel Gandolfo, leveraging Villanova’s connections to the Augustinian Order and the Vatican to integrate environmental science with global moral leadership.
The conference is organized in collaboration with partners such as the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development and the Centro di Alta Formazione Laudato Si’, which was established by Pope Francis to further ecological education and sustainability initiatives.
Cardinal Fabio Baggio, C.S., Director General of the Laudato Si’ Center for Higher Education, stated: “The Pope Leo XIV Medal for Sustainability honors individuals whose lives bear witness to the inseparable bond between care for creation and the promotion of human dignity, rooted in the light of our faith.”
Grounded in the teachings of Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum by Pope Francis, alongside Pope Leo XIV’s Dilexi Te, the 2026 International Sustainability Conference addresses the convergence of ecological degradation and social inequality, encouraging innovative sustainability approaches across various fields.
Call for Papers and Registration Open
Submissions and registrations are now open for researchers, experts, and leaders from diverse disciplines related to sustainability. Contributions may include theoretical or practical insights, with options for lightning talks and poster presentations.
The deadline for abstract submissions has been extended to July 31, 2026.
Authors are encouraged to highlight how their work fosters a positive impact on sustainability. Evaluations will consider the originality, clarity, and rigor of submissions. For more details, including registration and submission guidelines, visit HERE.
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