Program Description

The Connelly-Delouvrier International Scholars Program is designed to provide financial support for one academic semester of study abroad for a select group of academically talented students. The program offers a culturally broadening and intellectually maturing experience, while at the same time building lasting relationships with host institutions that will benefit future Villanova students. The program is open to students taking courses in the Honors Program, whether or not they are pursuing a formal Honors degree, and to students who are Presidential Scholarship recipients.

This program supports international studies opportunities for undergraduate students while building momentum for the University's efforts to globalize its curriculum and open new possibilities for students. The initiative is also designed to support Villanova's strategic decision to position itself as a highly selective institution with emphasis on high academic standards and dedication to intellectual excellence. The Connelly-Delouvrier International Scholars Program has had a profound effect on Villanova's ability to offer unique cultural perspectives to selected students interested in expanding their knowledge and excellence. Furthermore, in recent years, Connelly-Delouvrier International Scholars have had extraordinary success competing for nationally competitive scholarships such as the Fulbright.

Program Eligibility and Deadlines

The Connelly-Delouvrier International Scholarship is open to students in good standing in the University Honors Program (3.33 cumulative GPA) and to students who are Presidential Scholarship recipients. Students apply in their sophomore year for study abroad in the junior year (Engineering and Nursing students with scheduling constraints may apply in their first year to study in the sophomore year). Returning Scholars serve as peer mentors for students applying in the following year(s).

The Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships will conduct an informational meeting about the scholarship in November. After attending this meeting, students may pick up an application packet in the office (SAC 138). A complete application consists of completed proposal forms, resume, essay, official transcripts, two teacher recommendations, and a description of your proposed study abroad program. The deadline for submitting the application is in March (specific date TBA).

Program Funding

The Connelly-Delouvrier International Scholars Program is a result of the generosity of the Connelly Foundation and honors the memory of Judith Connelly-Delouvrier who died in the 1996 TWA Flight 800 tragedy. In 1955 John F. and Josephine C. Connelly chose to share their good fortune by incorporating the Connelly Foundation, assisting the activities of educational, medical, cultural, and religious organizations which endeavor to improve the quality of life for people in the Delaware Valley.

Through a relationship that spans over forty years, the Connelly family name has become familiar to thousands of students and faculty within the Villanova community. The Connelly Center, with its academic and social components, serves as the nucleus of student life. The College of Commerce and Finance, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Falvey Library, and the School of Law have also benefited from the benevolence of the Connelly Foundation. In addition, many disadvantaged students from the Philadelphia area are afforded a Villanova education through Connelly Foundation Scholarships.

Mrs. Judith Connelly-Delouvrier was born Judith Celeste Connelly in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. She was one of six children born to Josephine C. and the late John F. Connelly. After attending Melrose Academy in Elkins Park, she graduated from Rosemont College. Mrs. Delouvrier later studied at the Sorbonne in Paris, France, and received her master's degree in art history from George Washington University. Her career included positions with the international art dealer Sotheby's in New York and Revlon, Inc.

Mrs. Delouvrier's volunteer work included serving on an advisory committee of an international exchange program for French and American students; acting as a docent at the Metropolitan Museum of Art; founding a program called Art Tours for Children; and teaching Catholic catechism classes. Mrs. Delouvrier also served on the board of directors of Common Cents, a program to encourage philanthropic leanings in children. Mrs. Delouvrier served as a trustee of the Connelly Foundation where she played a substantial role in the grant-making activities.  As a spirited student, businesswoman, volunteer, wife and mother, she exemplified an appreciation of the opportunities that the Connelly-Delouvrier International Scholars Program make available to Villanova Students.

• Connelly-Delouvrier International Scholars Program Pre-application Online Form
• Connelly-Delouvrier International Scholars Program Application

Past Connelly-Delouvrier International Scholars