Villanova University is experiencing a surge in its global profile, significantly enhanced by its alumnus Pope Leo XIV and growing connections to the Vatican. This influence, dubbed the 'Pope Leo Effect,' is extending to the university's renowned basketball program, which will open its season in Rome.
The men's and women's basketball teams are set to compete in the Eternal City Tip-Off on Sunday, Nov. 1, against Notre Dame. The doubleheader, scheduled to be held approximately six miles from the Vatican, comes shortly after Villanova hosted a sustainability conference in Rome and presented a cardinal with the inaugural Pope Leo XIV Sustainability Medal.
"We certainly have a bigger footprint there now than we used to," said Villanova President, the Rev. Peter Donohue. "People do know who we are, just because it’s the pope’s school."
Pope Leo XIV, who graduated from Villanova with a mathematics degree in 1977, belongs to the Augustinians, the religious order that founded the university in 1842. The university has observed a notable increase in applications, with a more than 10% jump in the first admissions cycle following the pontiff's 2025 election.
Villanova boasts a distinguished athletic history, including NCAA men's basketball championships in 1985, 2016, and 2018. The university is the only American institution with a pontiff as an alumnus, a distinction that has amplified its standing.
Preparations for the Vatican events were underway before Pope Leo XIV's recent cancer diagnosis and surgery. Health permitting, the pope is scheduled to host a private audience for the teams and their traveling supporters within the Vatican on Saturday. Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson Perez is also slated to celebrate a private Mass for them at St. Peter's Basilica.
Villanova's vice president for mission and ministry, the Rev. Bernie Scianna, has noted an increased interest in Catholicism on campus. Last year, 24 individuals, primarily students, joined the Catholic Church at the university, a significant rise from the usual fewer than 10 per year. Currently, 56 individuals are pursuing membership.
The university has a long-standing tradition of facilitating student internships and study abroad programs in Italy and at the Vatican, with these opportunities expanding. Students have recently participated in trips to Rome for humanities and business classes, with some students having served at private Masses celebrated by Vatican officials.
"So, my fun fact at parties is that I served Mass for the now Pope Leo XIV," said senior Mike Whaley, who participated in a humanities class trip. Megan Zuzarth, another senior, noted the relatable aspect of Pope Leo XIV's connection to Villanova, stating, "He’s one of us."
President Donohue recalled the moment he heard about the Vatican conclave's decision, exclaiming, "It’s Bob!" Pope Leo XIV was born and raised in Chicago. Donohue, a fellow Augustinian, shared that his background in musical theater has proven unexpectedly useful in his role as university president, describing it as "the biggest acting job I’ve ever had."
Despite facing financial pressures common to many universities, Villanova is navigating these challenges effectively, undertaking renovations and expansion projects, and recently opening a new campus. The 'Pope Leo effect' is seen as a significant contributing factor to the university's resilience and ongoing success.