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Villanova Nursing celebrates blessing and raising of cross on its new building
Villanova, PA, April 16, 2008 — The Villanova University community applauded as the cross for the roof of its new College of Nursing
building was blessed and raised on April 10. The cross, which is just over seven feet tall and weighs
approximately 150 lbs., is constructed of copper with gold leaf. Its design mirrors the style of the
crosses topping the spires of St. Thomas of Villanova Church, a campus landmark visible for miles.
Nursing faculty, staff, students and other members of the University gathered at the construction
site for the event. Joining them were Robert (’50 EGR) and Marie Fitzmyer, who
contributed the cross, and Dr. Louise Fitzpatrick, Connelly Endowed Dean and Professor of Nursing.
University President Rev. Peter Donohue, O.S.A. offered a blessing and within minutes, construction
workers had the cross moving high overhead. It was seated on its permanent home atop the 70 ft. tower
in the center of the building, signifying the facility is that much closer to completion.
By this summer, the $32 million, 75,500 sq. ft., state-of-the-art facility will open in support of
the education of the next generation of nurses, demonstrating the University’s commitment to nursing
education as part of its institutional and social mission.
The College, a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence in Nursing Education, enjoys a
reputation across the country and the globe for its superior programs and graduates. This new
building will support its initiatives including student learning in technology-driven clinical
simulation labs and enhance an environment for teaching and scholarship. It will provide an atmosphere
that stimulates advancing the future of nursing. Additionally, this environmentally-friendly building
will provide space for University events.
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