Villanova University announced on March 30 that it will hold a panel discussion titled “Pope Leo @ One: Augustinian, Pastoral, Prophetic” on April 28 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Villanova Room of the Connelly Center. The event will mark the first anniversary of Pope Leo XIV’s election and examine his early papacy through Villanova’s Augustinian Catholic tradition.
The discussion is organized by Villanova’s Office for Mission and Ministry and aims to address themes such as pastoral leadership, prophetic witness, and engagement with the global Church. According to the university, these topics reflect ongoing priorities in both local and international Catholic communities.
Tia Noelle Pratt, PhD, special assistant to the Vice President for Mission & Ministry and director of Mission Engagement and Strategic Initiatives for Mission and Ministry at Villanova, will facilitate the panel. The event will begin with opening remarks from Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, President of Villanova University.
Panelists are expected to discuss Pope Leo XIV’s influences and priorities as well as issues related to the global Church and the Synod on Synodality. The university said this reflects its commitment to dialogue, discernment, and community engagement within its academic environment.
The event is free but requires advance registration; a livestream option will also be available for those unable to attend in person.
Villanova University was founded in 1842 based on an Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition that emphasizes critical thinking, compassion in action, and service-oriented success across its six colleges.
