Marking One Year of Pope Leo XIV’s Papacy
Villanova Community Reflections on the Election of Pope Leo XIV
As we celebrate the first year of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy, Villanovans around the world are pausing to reflect on what this historic moment has meant for the world, the Catholic Church and, in a singular way, Villanova University. From day one, Pope Leo has rooted his ministry in the Augustinian tradition that shaped him—and that defines us as Villanovans. His humanitarian call to unity (unitas), grounded in love (caritas), and his thoughtful engagement (veritas) with emerging challenges, including technology and human dignity, have offered a steady moral and spiritual compass for us all.
As Villanovans, we move forward with gratitude for the wisdom, guidance, and spiritual leadership Pope Leo will continue to offer—inviting the faithful, in the spirit of St. Augustine, to deeper reflection, greater unity, and ever more firm roots in truth and love.
We invited members of the Villanova community to share their memories of learning about Pope Leo’s election. Here are some of their stories:
"I will never forget my walk around campus that afternoon: a beautiful, sunny spring day, the bells tolling for an entire hour in jubilant celebration, and the flag of the Holy See moved onto the University's seal on the 2nd floor of the Connelly Center. What an exciting moment for Villanova University, the Order of St. Augustine, our Church, and our world!" Peter Fay, Catherine of Siena Teaching Scholar, Villanova University Ethics Program
“I was in Cape Town, South Africa for our EMBA Global Immersion. When Cardinal Mamberti announced ‘Robertum Franciscum,’ I shouted, ‘PREVOST!’ A Villanovan just became Pope! It was a festive evening of native South African foods and dancing—a great day to celebrate.” John Miller ’24 MSCM, ’26 EMBA
“I was watching from home with my 1-year-old grandson on my lap when the announcement came. I shouted with joy and called to my daughter, a Villanova junior, who came downstairs, glanced at the TV, and calmly said, ‘Oh, I know him’—he had celebrated Mass for her class. Three generations of our family shared that historic moment together.” Noel Dolan ’90 BA, Assistant Director, Augustine Culture Seminar Program
What does having a Villanovan pope mean to you personally?
“Having an American Pope from Villanova gives me a feeling of connection I never previously had. The papacy feels more human, and how he approaches his mission is even more meaningful.” Eloise Berry, Assistant Vice President, Office of Belonging and Inclusion
“That the world can see a visible presence living out the tenets of a Villanova education.” Pamela Boyan ’83 CLAS
“I know and trust that Pope Leo will help the Church live out the charisms of ‘Veritas, Unitas, Caritas.’” Boratha Tan ’16 COE
What opportunities does an Augustinian pope create for the Villanova community?
“There is no turning back. The Augustinians and Villanova are now on the world stage.” Edward Washuta ’88 CLAS
"I hope that having an Augustinian Pope causes the Villanova community to follow the example of Saint Augustine and Pope Leo in seeking Truth and remaining restless until the pursuit ends in Christ in whom we are all one." Brian Quilter '92 CLAS
"It creates opportunities to connect in more meaningful ways, both personally and professionally.” Mike Brown, Director, Office of Veterans and Military Service Members
“Pope Leo can be an inspiration for us to live according to the true Christian values of peace and community among all peoples." Paul Sheldon, Retired Faculty, Department of Psychology
How does having an Augustinian pope inspire you to live out our University values?
“It is a powerful reminder that University and Augustinian values—especially community—are lived everywhere, not just at Villanova. Pope Leo shows that community and compassion are universal." Joseph Klieman ’26 COE
“Truth, love, and unity never fade. They are timeless.” Edward Washuta ’88 CLAS
"The values of the school, I feel, shaped many aspects of Pope Leo (veritas, unitas, caritas) which is reflective in the lives of myself and my family." Donna Cassidy ’79 FCN