Each fall, Villanova begins the academic year with a celebration honoring St. Thomas of Villanova, the 16th-century Augustine bishop of Valencia, Spain, and patron of the University. Historically held on one afternoon, St. Thomas of Villanova Day has been expanded to incorporate a day of service, an initiative that was a very successful part of the Inauguration of the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., as president in fall 2006.

This tradition will continue with two days of special events in September as the University hosts the 2008 St. Thomas of Villanova Celebration. On Friday, September 19, there will be an academic symposium in the Villanova Room of the Connelly Center in the afternoon. The symposium will be followed by a wine and cheese reception on the Connelly Center patio and in the lower atrium.

Saturday, September 20, will be dedicated to a day of service in the Greater Philadelphia region. Students, faculty, and staff, along with their families, will partner with community agencies to perform service at various locations during the day. At the end of the day, groups will return to campus for a liturgy celebrated by Father Donohue followed by a community dinner, both of which will take place in The Pavilion.

Friday, September 19th

Saturday, September 20th