"You will have the challenge and the opportunity to make a big difference"
While the speeches and messages to graduates tend to bring in some big names and a lot of wise advice, the 2026 graduates of Villanova got the best message of all -- from Pope Leo XIV.
Leo, of course, has a reason to address Villanova grads -- since he is one. He's got a mathematics degree from the university, Class of ’77 College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Here's what he said:
The world beyond Villanova is waiting for you, sometimes with open arms, and sometimes with truly dangerous intent. You will have the challenge and the opportunity to make a big difference, if you carry with you those Augustinian values of Veritas, Unitas, Caritas.
This being the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, I would invite you to recall in a special way the guiding principles of the foundations of our nation:
‘We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all [people] are created equal; that they are endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights, and among those are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness.’
May the graduates of 2026 always be faithful to the guiding light that has been so important for these 250 years. Congratulations, and please know that I send all of you my apostolic blessing.
Fraternally,
Leo XIV
Take a look at more of the context below:
And just because, a bit of fun from the "numbers guy":
And have you heard of this other Villanova student? Take a look at this ESPN article.
