VN_SPR SUM_06 covers FINAL.indd - Villanova University

Spotlight onthe CampaignFollowing cocktails in the lobby,guests were called to dinner bytrumpeters and led through theaisles to be seated on the grand stage atthis historic venue. The spectaculartheater, which commemorates its 75thanniversary this year, proved once againto be a unique and exciting setting torecognize another Villanova milestone.“The first time the University communitygathered at Radio City MusicHall was in 1996 to celebrate reachingthe $100 million mark in the previouscampaign,” said John M. Elizandro, vicepresident for Institutional Advancement.“Now, a decade later, Villanova stillholds the distinction of being the onlygroup to gather in this special way onthe theater’s stage.”Joining the guests that evening wereseven extraordinary recent alumniwho served as the hosts and speakers.As Villanova students, all of theseyoung leaders won prestigious nationalscholarships and fellowships, includingRhodes, Gates Cambridge, Fulbright andGoldwater. They shared their stories andthanked the University’s generous supportersfor providing opportunities thathelped shape their success at Villanovaand beyond. (For more on these stellar’Nova grads, see page 13).CommitmentsInspire andTransformThe beautifully transformed stage providedthe perfect setting for the announcementof six leadership commitments to the campaign.These gifts, totaling more than$18 million, have helped the campaignreach nearly $210 million, or 70 percent ofits $300 million goal (see page 16).“These are exceptional commitmentsto Villanova,” Father Dobbin said. “This isthe kind of support that will lead the campaignto its goal and help the Universityachieve its strategic priorities—buildingthe endowment and expanding academicprograms, scholarships and financial aid.”123 45 610 Villanova Magazine