Students and faculty revel in the historic moment as Robert Francis Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV.
**Pope Leo XIV Emerges from Villanova: A University Celebration**
**Pope Leo XIV Emerges from Villanova: A University Celebration**
A Philadelphia university embraces its newly elected pontiff with joy and pride.
On May 8, 2025, Villanova University, nestled in the suburbs of Philadelphia, erupted in celebration as its remarkable alumnus, Robert Francis Prevost, was elected the new pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. The atmosphere was electric as students gathered for a watch party, collectively witnessing the white smoke signaling a new papacy. The ecstatic cheers that accompanied the announcement were palpable, especially upon hearing the name "Prevost," which resonated throughout the Gothic campus.
As church bells chimed jubilantly for hours, the university community rejoiced over its newfound connection to the Vatican. With approximately 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students, Villanova is lauded as the foremost Catholic university of the Augustinian order, steeped in the teachings of St. Augustine and a mission centering on truth, charity, and community harmony.
Having graduated in 1977 with a degree in mathematics and philosophy, Prevost maintained a close relationship with Villanova, frequently reconnecting with students and returning for events. His honorary doctor of humanities from the university in 2014 further buttressed this bond. Rev. Peter M. Donohue, Villanova's president, echoed sentiments of pride during this momentous occasion, remarking on Prevost's dedication to the university and his eventual responsibilities as pope.
On the day of the announcement, Father Donohue found himself in Chicago attending a Villanova alumni event but was soon inundated with congratulatory messages, including one from Notre Dame’s president. He anticipated that Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, would carry his humble nature into the papacy. Known for his sincerity, Prevost has always prioritized community, dining with fellow Augustinians daily while living in Vatican City.
Villanova's connection to their pope was palpably felt on campus. Many students shared personal anecdotes, with some friends having dined with him in Rome. Faculty members, too, had experienced encounters with Prevost; one professor celebrated the news during a departmental lunch. As champagne flowed and excitement permeated the air, the Villanova community basked in the glory of their most esteemed alumnus leading the Catholic Church.
As church bells chimed jubilantly for hours, the university community rejoiced over its newfound connection to the Vatican. With approximately 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students, Villanova is lauded as the foremost Catholic university of the Augustinian order, steeped in the teachings of St. Augustine and a mission centering on truth, charity, and community harmony.
Having graduated in 1977 with a degree in mathematics and philosophy, Prevost maintained a close relationship with Villanova, frequently reconnecting with students and returning for events. His honorary doctor of humanities from the university in 2014 further buttressed this bond. Rev. Peter M. Donohue, Villanova's president, echoed sentiments of pride during this momentous occasion, remarking on Prevost's dedication to the university and his eventual responsibilities as pope.
On the day of the announcement, Father Donohue found himself in Chicago attending a Villanova alumni event but was soon inundated with congratulatory messages, including one from Notre Dame’s president. He anticipated that Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, would carry his humble nature into the papacy. Known for his sincerity, Prevost has always prioritized community, dining with fellow Augustinians daily while living in Vatican City.
Villanova's connection to their pope was palpably felt on campus. Many students shared personal anecdotes, with some friends having dined with him in Rome. Faculty members, too, had experienced encounters with Prevost; one professor celebrated the news during a departmental lunch. As champagne flowed and excitement permeated the air, the Villanova community basked in the glory of their most esteemed alumnus leading the Catholic Church.
