Pope's Alma Mater Takes Over Rome

Villanova University is increasing its presence and connections in Rome, partly due to its notable alumnus, Pope Leo XIV. The university's president, the Rev. Peter Donohue, noted a significant rise in recognition, stating, "People do know who we are, just because it's the pope's school." Pope Leo XIV, who graduated from Villanova in 1977, is a member of the Augustinian order that founded the university.

The men's and women's basketball teams are set to open their season in Rome on Sunday, November 1, with a matchup against Notre Dame. This event, named the Eternal City Tip-Off, is scheduled to take place near the Vatican. This comes shortly after Villanova hosted a sustainability conference in Rome and presented a cardinal with an award. The university has seen a remarkable increase in applications, with a jump of over 10% in the first admissions cycle after the pope's election in 2025, which is attributed to the "Pope Leo effect."

Villanova's connection to Pope Leo XIV has elevated its profile, complementing its successful basketball program, which has won NCAA championships in 1985, 2016, and 2018. The event in Rome is anticipated to draw approximately 6,000 Villanova fans and 1,000 Notre Dame fans. The pope, health permitting, is expected to host the teams and fans for a private audience at the Vatican.

Beyond athletics, the university is experiencing heightened interest in Catholicism. The Rev. Bernie Scianna, Villanova's vice president for mission and ministry, has observed an increase in students joining the Catholic Church on campus. Opportunities for students to study and intern in Italy and at the Vatican are also expanding, further deepening the university's connection to Rome.