Message From The President Of Villanova University

Dear Members of the Villanova Community,

I am writing to share some significant University news. 

Villanova University and Rosemont College have come to an agreement to merge our two neighboring Catholic institutions, beginning in 2027. It will be a multi-year, phased transition intended to provide current Rosemont students with the opportunity to continue their education and graduate with a Rosemont College degree. During this time, Rosemont College will continue to operate as a separate entity. 

Villanova University and Rosemont College enjoy a longstanding connection. Over the years, Villanova and Rosemont students have taken classes and participated in programs at our respective campuses, and many families in the Greater Philadelphia region celebrate alumni from both institutions. But most importantly, our two institutions have always shared a commitment to advancing Catholic higher education. Given this shared commitment, our close physical proximity and deep alumni connections, this merger represents a unique and powerful opportunity for our two institutions.

During the transition, Rosemont College's educational and many extracurricular activities will continue as planned—supported by Rosemont faculty and staff. After the transition, the campus will honor the legacy of its founders, the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, and the institution’s history and mission by retaining the Rosemont name as it continues to support Catholic higher education. 

This agreement, together with the recent acquisition of Cabrini University, represents long-term strategic planning for Villanova. The demand for a Villanova education has never been greater. With this agreement, we seek to enhance our University programs and complement the goals we developed together in our Strategic Plan, Rooted. Restless., all while honoring and preserving the legacy of Rosemont College. As always, our number one priority is providing students with a unique and transformative education—interwoven with values, knowledge and community—and unparalleled preparation for lifelong success.

I know this announcement raises many questions, many of which simply cannot be answered at this time. There is still much to be done, but we are energized to work together with our Rosemont colleagues given the longstanding bonds between our communities and the opportunities the agreement will provide. Additional information about the agreement is available on our website. As more details become available and finalized, I will continue to keep you informed about our progress.

Sincerely,

Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA

President