Commencement 2007 - Villanova University

A Word from the PresidentWhat You Can Do for VillanovaAsdemonstrated throughout this issue, VillanovaUniversity’s 2007 Commencement activitieswere a tremendous success, highlighted by ceremonies and celebrations,inspirational speeches and countless examples of ourgraduates’ impressive accomplishments. It was especially gratifyingto see this year’s graduates become part of our alumni family.You’ll also read in the following pages about the generosity, leadershipand compassion of alumnus Charlie Heimbold and hiswife, Monika. It is clear that as a community we have produceda group of well-rounded individuals, grounded in our distinctiveCatholic and Augustinian identity, with the potential to affectreal change at home and throughout the world.Beginning with their first day at Orientation, our students areencouraged to recognize how intellectual curiosity and service tothe community are at the center of a good and meaningful life.They are encouraged to practice the ethical aspects of doing businessin a way that embodies the teachings of St. Augustine withrespect, honesty and honor. And, as we send our newest graduatesout into the world as ambassadors for Villanova, these essentialcore values affect all aspects of their post-Commencement lives—exhibited not only in the success that shall come to them as theyrise in their careers or pursue additional educational opportunities,but also in their ability to balance and blend their work andpersonal lives. These values provide a strong foundation as ournewest alumni structure how they lead their business lives, whilealso making their communities a better place to live.The bonds that tie us together as Villanovans were madeabundantly clear at this year’s Alumni Reunion Weekend, whereso many of our graduates renewed friendships, shared stories andexemplified the traits that make our community unique. Eachyear it is gratifying to see so many alumni, young and old, eagerto return to campus. Iencourage all alumni toreflect on what you gainedfrom your years at Villanova.I hope your answeris similar to mine: theactive pursuit of knowledge,meaningful lifelongfriendships, a strong senseof community and anongoing desire to seekintellectual stimulation.As I traveled this past year to meet with alumni chapters acrossthe country, I often asked “What can Villanova do for you?” Now,here is something you can do for Villanova: reflect on how youcan help keep Villanova’s mission alive wherever you are. I alsourge you to help us tell the Villanova story and to share withothers what the University means to you.Each of you has the capability to bring the Villanova messageto your communities. This is a truly exciting time for us and wehave many wonderful stories to tell: We are expanding our facilities,reinvigorating our academic programs and creating innovativelearning opportunities outside of the classroom. Today, aswe celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2007, I hopethat all alumni will continue to appreciate and value what theygained personally and professionally from their Villanova education—andthen to tell others. You are Villanova’s true leaders,and I invite you to help me spread the word.The Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., ’75 A&SUniversity PresidentDAVID CAMPLI