Villanova's $600M Campaign to Fund Facilities Expansion

PHILADELPHIA-Villanova University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue has opened a $600-million comprehensive capital campaign entitled, “For the Greater Great: The Villanova Campaign to Ignite Change.”

In announcing the largest campaign in Villanova's 170-year history, Rev. Donohue reported it received the largest ever gift to the university – a $50 million commitment from alumnus James C. Davis '81 and his wife, Kim. A member of the Villanova University Board of Trustees, Davis serves as campaign co-Chair together with Terence M. O'Toole '80, former Chair of the Board.

Villanova begins the public phase of its campaign having raised nearly $300 million, which was the goal attained in the university's previous campaign concluded in 2007. O'Toole made a $10-million gift to the university, establishing the O'Toole Family Presidential Scholarship Program. Villanova also received a $10-million anonymous gift toward a new performing arts center.

The campaign earmarks $150 million to facilities that will include: continued expansion of student residence capacity, new and modernized teaching and laboratory facilities, a new library facility, a major restoration of Tolentine Hall, renovation of the athletic pavilion, and the creation of a new performing arts center.

“This extraordinary gift from Jim and Kim Davis illustrates the boldness of this Campaign,” said Rev. Donohue. “The significant investment in the University reflects an unwavering belief in its mission and a desire to play a key role in charting its future. I am grateful to Jim and Kim for this historic, inspirational and transformational gift, which will usher in a new era of philanthropy at Villanova.”