The Villanovan | Volume 119, Issue 1: September 10, 2025
Campus Culture: What To Expect
Sophie Latessa Co-Culture Editor
Well, well, well. Fancy meeting you here in the culture section. If it’s your first time, welcome, and allow me to introduce you to the wonderful world of on-campus events, arts, food, music, fashion and most importantly, what’s going on with Villanova students. This is the best place to get to know the Villanova community and the people in it. Looking to hear about the play running at the Mullen Center? You’re in the right place. In need of a movie or book recommendation? Look no further. In the mood for a holiday-themed horoscope? Yep, that’s us, too. With such a vibrant campus atmosphere, there is never a shortage of events to attend or topics to discuss at Villanova. Here is a brief guide to campus arts, events and more to look forward to this coming semester as you immerse yourself in Villanova’s unique culture.
Food Villanova on-campus food is constantly evolving, with an especially big change this semester in the opening of Wawa in the Connelly Center. Try the new Nova Noodle Company station in Conn or order a sandwich from Wawa to immerse yourself in the newness of the building and its food offerings.
Performing Arts
Anyone who has seen High School Musical knows that Wildcats can excel in both athletics and performing arts. This semester, Villanova Theatre will be presenting productions of The Language Archive (Sept. 25 to Oct. 5) and Detroit (Nov. 13 to Nov. 23) in the John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts. Villanova Student Musical Theatre
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Villanova Hit With Two Active Shooter Hoax Calls
p. 3
Finding Your Place: Involvement Fair 2025 p. 8
University Reflects On Orientation Swatting Scares
Over the first few weeks of school, Villanova was the victim of two hoax active shooter calls within a span of the first week. In a time already characterized by a wide array of emotions, students, faculty and staff have had to reflect on the incidents in the weeks since.
On Thursday, Aug. 21, a 911 call was answered that reported an active shooter at the Villanova Charles Widger School of Law. The call reported one shooter and one wounded at 4:30 p.m.
Students, faculty, parents and Orientation counselors who were present at the welcome mass were told to move to a secure location, per Nova Alert.
After an hour and a half at 6:01 p.m., University President Rev. Peter M. Donahue, O.S.A., Ph.D., emailed the University and described the shooting as a “cruel hoax.” The lockdown was lifted, and students and staff met on the campus green to discuss the incident.
“There was no active shooter, no injuries and no evidence of firearms present on campus,”
the statement read. “While that is a blessing and relief, I know today’s events have shaken our entire community.”
“Swatting” is a term that refers to making calls to 911 and reporting false information. The University was not the only campus that experienced swatting recently, as universities such as the University of Tennessee Chattanooga and the University of Arkansas.
Shortly after on Aug. 24, another fake call was made regarding an active shooter in Austin Hall, to which Villanova University Police quickly responded to and cleared.
With both active shooting hoax calls happening so soon in the school year and within such a brief timespan, members of the community were left to grapple with the aftermath.
Emma Maguire is a second-time orientation counselor and spoke with The Villanovan on how the incident impacted her and the effect she witnessed on the community.
“After the incident, I felt really disenheartened that someone could cause that much fear,” Maguire said. “Especially during orientation, which is already a nerve wracking time for freshmen.”
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Men’s Soccer Off To Best Start Since 2021
Dylan Johnson
Co-Sports
Editor
Villanova men’s soccer is off to its best start since 2021. The Wildcats battled to a 0-0 tie with Columbia this past Saturday, but suffered a loss in a competitive match against Army on Monday, 2-0. The Wildcats (2-12) were able to shut out an opponent for the third time this season against Columbia. Sophomore goalkeeper Alex Yagudayev has been the high-
Villanova Dining Change Roundup p. 4
Letters From Lauren: First Lasts and Last Firsts p. 9
light of Villanova’s defense and saved two shots on goal, while the rest of the defense blocked seven other attempts from Columbia (0-1-1).
“We’ve made a big focus of trying to be really detail-oriented and organized on the defensive side of the field,” head coach Mark Fetrow said.
Villanova Launches New Biomedical Engineering Major p. 5
Catching Up With The ‘Cats: Hezekiah Lewis p. 13
Was The Renovation Necessary? p. 6
Volleyball Starts 5-0 For First Time Since 2009 p. 14
“That was a big thing that we saw, which is what we needed to harp on to have some sustainable success moving forward.”
In their first four games of the season, the Wildcats allowed one goal. The hot start to the season came after men’s soccer had struggled to put together a successful season over the last few years. With two early wins, the team had already surpassed its win total from last season.
“The thing about Yu
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First-Year Housing Does Not Define One’s Experience p. 6
Preview: Villanova Football Takes On No. 2 Penn State p. 16
Emma Cote Co-News Editor
University President Rev. Peter M. Donahue, O.S.A., Ph.D., described the events of Aug. 21 as a “cruel hoax.” Dylan Johnson/Villanovan Photography
Brady Crampton had two shot attempts in the loss against Army. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER
Liquor Underage
September 2, GOOD COUNSEL
A female resident student, under 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication and was transported to Bryn Mawr hospital.
Harassment
September 3, CORR HALL
A resident female student reported being harassed by a female staff member.
Liquor Underage
September 6, SOUTH CAMPUS
A female resident student, under 21, was found intoxicated in public.
Liquor Underage
September 6, GOOD COUNSEL
A female resident student, under 21, was intoxicated in a public place.
CORRECTIONS
Factual errors are corrected as soon as they are
Liquor Underage
September 6, MAIN CAMPUS
A female resident student, under 21, was found intoxicated in public.
Liquor Underage
September 6, SULLIVAN HALL
A male resident student, under 21, was found intoxicated in public.
Public Drunkenness
September 6, MCGUINN HALL
A female resident student, over 21, was intoxicated in a public place.
University Reflects On Orientation Swatting Scares
Emma Cote Co-News Editor
Continued from p.1
Maguire noted the value of the University community in these times, and how much pride she has felt since the incidents to be a part of it.
“Everyone rallied to support one another and make sure someone’s Villanova experience is not defined by one moment.” Maguire said.
Maguire was present for both of the swatting incidents during orientation, and emphasized just how much the community has helped her following the active shooting hoax calls.
Others echoed similar feelings of fear and uncertainty that Maguire had shared, as well as uplifted the University community.
Kathy Byrnes is the Vice
President for Student Life and was present for the active shooter hoax call during the welcome Mass, as well as the second swatting incident.
Byrnes spoke with The Villanovan about the incident itself and going forward.
“I’ve had the pleasure of coming to work at Villanova every day for the past 35 years,” Byrnes explained. “So I have the privilege of feeling safe here.”
Byrnes highlighted how proud she was of the new students and orientation staff for their resilience.
“I have felt so grateful for our new students as well as our Orientation staff,” Byrnes said. “People have picked themselves up.”
In her reflection, what Byrnes really emphasized was the value of community. Byrnes believes that is what is helping others
through.
Notably, Byrnes had spoken to a father who is an alumnus of the University and whose son is now a first year. Both were present for the active shooter hoax call during the welcome Mass.
The father had shared with Byrnes that the advice he had given to his son was to look out for everyone. If someone is sitting alone, go talk with them and ask how they’re doing.
Byrnes emphasized how indicative this advice was of the importance of community in the aftermath of both incidents.
“It’s really what the ‘Nova experience and community is about,” Byrnes said. “Helping each other through.”
Other students echoed sentiments of surprise, shock and fear. Most prevalent though was the uncertainty behind making sense of these events and continu
in the new academic year.
As the University community continues into the Fall Semester, the news surrounding who is making these calls has broken on multiple outlets, including the New York Post
While the news shines light on which groups are responsible, the incidents definitely made an impact on campus.
In spite of these calls, the University remains strong and has already completed the first two weeks of classes as well as the annual involvement fair for clubs and activities.
Likewise, Fr. Peter hosted orientation counselors for a barbeque to thank them for their efforts on Sunday, Sept. 7.
The University offers several resources for students, including Mission and Ministry, the University Counseling Center, and Uwill.
The University encouraged students to take advantage of several resources, such as Uwill. Dylan Johnson/Villanovan Photography
Kathy Byrnes, Vice President for Student Life, emphasized the value of community after the hoax. Courtesy of Grace Janofsky ing onwards
Villanova Hit With Two Active Shooter Hoax Calls
Dylan Johnson Co-Sports Editor
Villanova University was a victim of two hoax active shooter calls over the course of four days that left students, parents and the Villanova community on edge.
Commonly referred to as “swatting,” a caller places a false report to 911, causing law enforcement to respond to a college campus, business or even celebrities’ homes.
On Thursday, Aug. 21, a call was answered by 911 with reports of an active shooter at the Villanova Charles Widger School of Law, with one reported shooter and one wounded victim just after 4:30 p.m., as students and parents were sitting down for the Class of 2029 orientation mass on the Rowen Campus Green.
“ACTIVE SHOOTER on VU campus. Move to secure location. Lock/barricade doors. More info to follow,” read the Nova Alert message that was sent to all students, staff and faculty at 4:34 p.m.
Within seconds, students, orientation staff, faculty and family members rushed for the nearest building to find safety. At the same time, hundreds of state and local law enforcement arrived and surrounded the building, and worked to secure the campus.
Senior communications major Ryan Scanlon was taking part in the mass when the active shooter alert was sent out. He was barricaded in the Tech Zone of the Falvey Library along with dozens of other people spread out
across the five floors.
“We filed in the first floor, second floor, third floor, fourth floor,” Scanlon said. “Then we hunkered down until the police sent us out.”
The events that transpired on Villanova’s campus hit close to home for Scanlon, a 2022 graduate of North Broward Preparatory School in Coconut Creek, FL. In 2018, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, a neighboring school to North Broward in Parkland, FL, was the site of a mass school shooting when Nicolas Cruz gunned down 34 people, killing 17.
“I was an eighth grader when the [mass shooting took place],” Scanlon said. “I knew people who had passed away who were in that freshman building because of the camp I went to, Eagles Landing Camp.”
Now in college, Scanlon felt the familiar rush of emotions while guiding new students running to safety inside the Falvey Library.
“I was fine, but my initial thought was the new families and parents, new freshmen, taking in the experience of the second day on campus, it had to take a huge toll on them.”
An hour and a half after the first Nova Alert at 6:01 p.m., Villanova University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, released a statement to the Villanova community stating the threat to campus was a “cruel hoax.”
“Mercifully, no one was injured, and we now know that it was a cruel hoax—there was no active shooter, no injuries and no
evidence of firearms present on campus,” Fr. Peter, said in a statement to the community on Aug. 21. “While that is a blessing and relief, I know today’s events have shaken our entire community.”
For many students, including freshman Nicole Klapowitz, it was their first full day on campus, making the hoax call became one of their earliest experiences at Villanova.
Klapowitz was just getting adjusted to her main campus dorm room in O’Dwyer Hall with her friends Angel Javier and Olivia Glasser. Javier received a call on his phone from the Nova Alert system advising them to take safety from an active shooter situation.
“We went downstairs to the resident assistant (RA) and asked him [about the alert], and he looked really nervous,” Klapowitz said. “[The RA] was like, ‘Everybody just get back to your rooms, lock the doors and put stuff in front of the doors.’ So we all went back to Javier’s room. We moved a dresser in front of the door and were waiting to see what was going to happen.”
Along with her friends, Klapowitz remained trapped in that dorm room with no idea when it would be safe to exit.
“We were in the room for, I think, around two hours or something like that. And then, we got the notification that it was finally okay,” Klapowitz said.
“We walked downstairs and everybody met in the common area of our dorm. This mom was crying. There were families still there, so someone’s little brother
was here, and he was really scared and was crying too. Even though it was fake, we all thought it was real.”
The hoax 911 call was one of two that Villanova received. Days later, on Sunday, Aug. 24, while mass at St. Thomas Church was underway, Villanova received another hoax call with reports of an active shooter inside Austin Hall.
Villanova University Police Department quickly responded to Austin Hall and cleared the building’s three floors.
As a precaution, they stationed a police officer in front of the hall for the remainder of the day.
An extremist network called The Com told WIRED it was responsible for the hoax 911 calls. The group’s leader, who identified themselves as Gores, told WIRED he offers hoax threat calls to schools for only $20. After the recent hoax calls, prices have now climbed up to $95.
While Villanova students feared for their lives inside heavily barricaded rooms, five members of the group hosted a livestream on Discord for an audience of around 41 people, Gores told WIRED.
WIRED asked Gores if the hoax calls will continue, to which Gores replied, “Yes. 2 months.”
At this current time, no arrests have been made in connection with the hoax calls. The Delaware County District Attorney’s office is working alongside the FBI to identify and hold those responsible.
Two separate hoax calls were called in on Villanova University over the 2025 move-in weekend. Dylan Johnson/Villanovan Photography
New students, families, orientation staff and other Villanovans rushed to safety during the lockdowns. Dylan Johnson/Villanovan Photography
Villanovans Embark On A New School Year
Ava Petrosky Staff Writer
Villanova’s campus is once again bustling with activity. As returning students reunite with friends, and new students seek budding relationships, a new school year is truly here.
The first few weeks of Fall Semester have certainly been packed with activity.
Although Starbucks had dropped its fall menu by the second day of classes, senior Ailish Wilson and her friends partook in the Campus Activities Team (CAT) Labor Day Weekend Ocean City Trip to squeeze in one last summer adventure. It took place on Saturday, Aug. 30.
“It was great because I think it was just nice to have that little taste of summer one last time,” Wilson said. “That taste of, like, relaxing and just spending time with people without huge deadlines looming over your head.”
Wilson was especially excited to begin her semester after studying abroad.
“I loved coming back and seeing everyone,” Wilson said. “It just feels like this huge reunion. It’s been so much fun.”
Just as Wilson enjoyed the Ocean City trip, many Villanovans have participated in the various CAT sponsored events throughout the first few weeks. Especially new students.
On Friday, Aug. 22, CAT hosted “‘Nova at Night,” a welcome back night for first-year students
Finn Courtney Co-News Editor
during Orientation. It featured a DJ, bouncy houses and food trucks. CAT has also put on events like vinyl painting in COVA on Tuesday, Sept. 2, a summer-themed Quizzo on Thursday, Sept. 4 and white-water rafting on the Lehigh River on Saturday, Sept. 6. Freshman Emily Gay took advantage of CAT’s entertainment right away. She played “Back to School” themed bingo on Wednesday, Aug. 27 in the Villanova Room.
“It was really fun,” Gay said. “It’s nice to see an organization sponsoring events to bring everyone together and keep people on campus. A place where there can be a community.”
These campus activities served to acclimate students, both returning and new, to the Wildcat community.
Some at Villanova associate “back to school” with CAT entertainment. For others, “back to school” means backpacks are packed, pencils are sharpened and computers are charged.
However, for NOVAnoise President, Kennis Murphy, “back to school” involves stepping back into her routine rhythm.
NOVAnoise is Villanova’s Student Tap Dance Ensemble. It hosted its annual Workshop Weekend on Saturday, Aug. 30 and Sunday, Aug. 31. This is an opportunity for
new students to meet and dance with the current members.
“Returners are trying to be super welcoming to them [new students] and ask them, almost, too many questions about themselves,” Murphy said. “It’s just, like, showing them that upperclassmen are here for them as well.”
NOVAnoise, along with other Student Performing Arts dance groups, performed at Villanova’s Meet the Dancers on Saturday, Sept. 6 in the Villanova Room.
While student engagement on campus is very lively, students are not the only ones busy these first few weeks of the semester.
Members of the Villanova Dining Services team hosted “Welcome Week” the first week of school, and the momentum has continued through the second week.
Welcome Week began at the reopening of the newly renovated Connelly Center on Monday, Aug. 25. Representatives from Dining were stationed outside the new sushi bar, handing out free giveaways.
Nutrition Promotion Manager for Villanova Dining, Jenna Rose, has great ambitions for this year.
“I’m really excited about the lineup of events we have planned,” Rose said. “We’re really trying to increase that level of student engagement with the Dining Services team.”
While “back to school” may look different for everyone, what is consistent is the student hustle that circulates throughout campus.
Villanova Dining Change Roundup
As Villanovans return from the summer recess, they have found themselves seemingly inundated with different updates and upgrades of the campus’ dining options.
The biggest one is the summer renovation of the Connelly Center. The previous primary dining option inside was the “Belle Air Terrace,” which has now been completely removed, along with the Holy Grounds and “Smoothitas,” which opened just last semester. They have been replaced with three distinct options: Nova Noodle Company, V Sushi and a fully-functional Wawa.
They have been replaced with three distinct options: Nova Noodle Company, V Sushi and Wawa, the latter of which is fully functional, in comparison to a real-world Wawa.
The removal of Belle Air Terrace does eliminate Villanova’s primary full-meal option after 8 p.m., along with the closure of all-you-can-eat dining halls like Dougherty Hall (Pit) and Donahue Hall (Spit) and the lessened variety of the Late Night options offered on South and West Campus.
This has frustrated some Villanovans, both for the lack of varied student input surrounding this major change and also students with dietary restrictions.
“It upsets me greatly that there is not a place where I, as a
diner with a restricted diet, can regularly get [simple foods like chicken tenders] at all hours of the day, including weekends,” senior Josh Mazurkiewicz said. “I am unable to utilize my meal plan to the fullest extent as there is not an easily accessible option. My opinion is that [Cafe Nova] should be open during the weekend to supplement such changes since Belle Air was removed without student opinion.”
The main difference between these three new Connelly Center dining options?
The first two accept meals/ MPEs under Villanova’s current meal plan, while Wawa only accepts points, Novabucks and outside payment options.
This has been a point of irritation for many Villanova students.
“I do like that there are a lot of convenience options at Wawa, but it is ridiculous to not include MPEs as an option to eat there,” Mazurkiewicz said. “Belle Air was my primary source of food every day, sometimes twice a day.”
In more cuisine-focused changes, a few different dining options on campus altered dining options to try and appeal to all Villanova students.
On West Campus, Second Storey, in addition to its deli, added a nightly pizza option, which is open six days a week from 7:45 p.m. to 11:15 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays and until 9:45 p.m. on Fridays.
Meanwhile, on Main, with the removal of the Connelly Holy
Grounds, GrubHub has switched its “order ahead” feature to the Bartley Holy Grounds, while also making architectural changes to Bartley’s Curley Exchange, removing and replacing previous seating areas.
At Cafe Nova, “Blue Fin” replaces the sushi option that opened there at the beginning of 2025, now simply offering the poke bowls that became available in the late months of the spring semester.
These new initiatives and others all go back to the hiring of Villanova’s Executive Director of Dining Services, Andrew Camuso, nearly one year ago. Camuso brought with him big and bold plans for Villanova dining from the get-go and to date, has accomplished a lot of what he talked about with The Villanovan in an interview in early 2025.
“I think [we’ve] hit the ground running, there’s no doubt,” Camuso said. “I think where the department of dining itself is evolving is we’re really looking at destination dining, so having this inclusivity of having kind of food for everybody.”
Part of that plan has been close collaboration with Villanova’s Student Government Association (SGA).
“I can confidently say that we are looking forward to another year of growth, collaboration, and new partnerships with [Villanova Dining],” SGA President Aleko Zeppos said, on behalf of the organization. “Since I first joined SGA, I’ve seen tremendous prog -
ress in our dining services, and I know this year will continue that momentum. This is just the beginning, and I know with the assistance of SGA and student voices, Villanova Dining will continue to set the standard and surpass expectations.”
Villanova also cancelled a planned restructuring of its meal plan options, as after previously announcing that per-week options would reduce to an unlimited plan, an 18-meal plan, a 12-meal plan, a six-meal plan and a 100-meal block, Dining Services announced via email in mid-July a reversal.
“All students have been placed into the plan that most closely aligns with the one they selected, or were assigned to, in the spring,” the email read.
One thing that didn’t revert in the meal plan switcharoo? A nearly $200 increase in the price per plan, as that remained attached to the revived options, from $4650 per semester for the unlimited plan, down to $2650 for the 100-block plan. However, according to Zeppos and SGA, changes to meal plans may still be forthcoming.
“On the topic of meal plans, I know it came as a surprise to many when the ‘Mighty Munch’ and ‘Frequent Foodie’ plans reverted back to the previous options before the start of the semester,” Zeppos said. “With so many moving parts over the summer, it was difficult to maximize value for students with the sudden changes, so we made the decision to return to the original plans. That said, [students should] keep an eye out in the coming weeks for surveys and opportunities.”
Students begin new classes, clubs and activities to start off the semester. Dylan Johnson/Villanovan Photography
Pope Leo: My Friend, Stories From Peru And Beyond
Isabella Carlin Co-News Editor
On Sunday, Sep. 7, the Office of Mission and Ministry hosted the conversation, “Pope Leo, My Friend: Stories From Peru & Beyond” led by Father Art Purcaro, O.S.A. and Father Kevin DePrinzio, O.S.A., Ph.D. This event was a part of the weekly “Sunday in St. Rita’s” series, at which students are invited to engage in fellowship and faithbased dialogue.
The presentation was led by two Villanova Augustinian friars who have known Pope Leo XIV long before he became the leader of the Catholic Church. To them, Pope Leo XIV was known as “Bob Prevost,” their brother, and a Villanovan.
“Where were you on May 8th?” Father Kevin DePrinzio, O.S.A., Ph.D asked the crowd. “In that moment, our lives as part of the Villanova community and members of the church changed. We now have a direct line to the pope.”
Father Art Purcaro shared that he has known Pope Leo XIV for decades. The two priests worked in Peru together. Having shared similar upbringings of attending seminary high schools and Villanova, their paths did not ultimately cross until they served Peruvian communities together in the ‘80s. Father Purcaro shared how himself and Pope Leo XIV share the roles of being both community and bridge
builders, embodying veritas, unitas and caritas as Villanova alumnus, and value the importance of sharing service with others.
“He saw the great need of the people of God [in Peru],” Father Art said.
Father Art described how at the time he and Pope Leo XIV were serving in Peru, 85% of the adults were illiterate. There were no hospitals, running water, limited electricity and scarce transportation options. Both men would travel horseback often. Yet, Father Purcaro described that his friend had a calling to live and learn with the Peruvians.
“I saw Bob once a week at their house,” Father Art said. “We would also get together three different times for a week once a year. We got to know each other better and better.”
Throughout his time in Peru, Pope Leo XIV would establish formation programs and diocesan teams to create Catholic communities throughout the country. He immersed himself in the culture and lived amongst the people of Trujillo. Pope Leo XIV and Father Art continued to foster their friendship as their years in Peru went by.
“See that cardboard picture of him?” Father Art said. “That’s not like him at all. He is a human being.”
Decades later, Father Art remains in contact with his friend. He emphasized the message to the audience that Pope Leo XIV is human,
just like everyone present in the West Lounge. He shared that Pope Leo XIV is the youngest of three boys, was raised in a Catholic family who regularly went to mass, is reserved, is very friendly in small gatherings, asks a lot of questions and has an ironic sense of humor. He even enjoys Chicago deep-dished pizza and Italian gelato.
“The cardinals in the conclave saw something in him. But before that, the Augustinians Friars saw something in him,” Father Kevin.
Father Art and Father Kevin shared that despite their friend Bob not being a natural extrovert, the Augustinian Friars knew he had a gift of seeing God in himself and others and valuing prayer. They recalled a moment years prior when the thought, “this guy might be the pope” crossed their minds.
Under Pope Francis’s leadership, Pope Leo XIV would return back to Peru as a bishop during a time of political strife for the country. A few years later, Pope Francis promoted him to positions in Rome serving as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. Father Art Purcaro shared that he believed that Pope Francis truly favored Bob Prevost in his ministry.
“You never know what God is up to,” Father Kevin said. “All of those little moments were stepping stones to become who he is today.”
Following Pope Francis’ death in May 2025, Pope Leo XIV was named the 267th pope.
The announcement of Pope Leo XIV’s appointment comes with a personal story from Father Art.
Father Art shared with the audience that just before the conclave began, he arrived in Rome to celebrate his 50th anniversary of being ordained a priest. He arranged to celebrate this occasion with his friend, Bob, and the two were scheduled to partake in Mass together. However, plans changed as Pope Francis passed away, and the conclave began.
Shortly after Pope Leo XIV was announced, Father Art returned to Rome. He explained how he was shocked when his friend, the new pope, showed up to his house unannounced to celebrate Mass.
“You wanted Mass with the pope, didn’t you?” Father Art recalled Pope Leo XIV saying. The friars concluded the dialogue by describing the role that Villanovans should play in supporting their fellow alum as he embarks on his new journey as a church world leader.
“We are his family,” Father Art said. “The responsibility he has deserves our support and our prayer. He needs us. We are in this together. It’s about being close to Christ together. We are all called to be more holy.”
Villanova Launches New Biomedical Engineering Major
Grace LaFond Staff Writer
On Wednesday, Sept. 3, the Villanova University Office of Undergraduate Admission posted an announcement on Instagram introducing Biomedical Engineering as the newest major in the College of Engineering.
According to the post, the new major takes inspiration from the popular biomedical engineering minor and graduate degree, focusing primarily on the mechanics behind medical device design, biomedical instrumentation, drug design and tissue engineering.
“This interdisciplinary major blends engineering, design and physiology to prepare students for careers improving human health,” the Villanova University Office of Undergraduate Admission said in a release.
Prospective undergraduate students applying to the University this cycle will now be able to select this new degree.
For the students currently within the College of Engineering, this announcement came as a delightful surprise. Sophomore mechanical engineering student Emily St. Pierre is thrilled at the new possibilities available to future and current students.
“It’s a really cool opportunity... now that we have all these beautiful new labs in Drosdick, it’s amazing that these new students will be able to take advantage of them and help people in their
future careers, because that’s what biomedical engineering, and all types [of] engineering, is really about,” St. Pierre said.
In addition to the announcement of biomedical engineering as the newest bachelor’s degree in the College of Engineering, the University is also offering a track in which students can obtain both a bachelor’s and a master’s of science in biomedical engineering in just five years.
This program is geared towards students interested in pursuing careers in biomechanics, cell engineering and biomedical sensor engineering.
Biomedical engineering has been a popular minor in the University’s College of Engineering for quite some time, possessing similar qualities to the University’s biochemical engineering, cellular engineering and electrical engineering minors.
For sophomore mechanical engineering major JP Rogerson, the biomedical engineering minor has had been particularly influential on his academic career.
“I’m taking a basic physiology class so far, and it’s fascinating how all the ways in which our body maintains homeostasis can be traced back to engineering principles,” Rogerson said. ‘It goes to show the potential of the field, to reengineer the body, to use nature as a guide to solving long standing medical problems.”
The University’s bioengineering and biomedical research group currently includes faculty
studying the potential of nanoparticles in traumatic brain injuries, gene delivery methods, nanomechanical modeling of cells and intercellular ice formation.
The addition of the biomedical engineering major to the College of Engineering marks an increase in the academic opportunities available to prospective undergraduate students drawn to the key tenets of the major.
Shannon Green is a current junior and mechanical engineer. She spoke with The Villanovan about what the addition of biomedical engineering can mean for prospective students especially.
“I think the biomedical engineering major is a great addition to the college of engineering,” junior mechanical engineering
major Shannon Green said. “I know this will spark interest in many students applying to Villanova because I know of people who were drawn to other schools solely because they offered biomedical engineering as a major rather than a minor.”
The addition of biomedical engineering as the newest major in the University’s College of Engineering marks a significant academic inclusion, allowing current and future undergraduate students to explore biomechanics and healthcare engineering on a deeper level than previously offered.
Given the new addition of Drosdick Hall along with the new major, the engineering department at the University continues to advance.
Current and prospective students share their excitement for the new major. Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography
DiLeo Staff Writer
When returning to campus this year, many students were anxious to see the Connelly Center’s drastic transformation. Students departed last spring with an image of the old Conn, but also with the knowledge that things would be permanently changed once they saw it again. The once 80s-styled campus-hub that reminded many of a ski lodge, suddenly became a sleek, modernized space for students featuring a new Wawa.
However, this new Wawa location came at the expense of the beloved Belle Aire Terrace. For decades, Belle Aire served up wraps, salads, burgers and more. Now, Villanovans can enjoy everything they would find in a traditional Wawa right here on campus, but is it worth it?
OPINION Was The Renovation Necessary?
The new Wawa essentially combined Belle Aire, Holy Grounds and the former convenience store into one space. To some, this creates the illusion of a Conn that has less to offer in terms of variety and utility. The renovation also got rid of beloved dining spots, like Smoothitas, which had just undergone a major makeover just last spring. Now, students are left with the options of either Wawa, Nova Noodles Co. or the new V Sushi Bar. While the food options in the new Connelly Center may be more expansive for some, the familiarity and warmth of the old Conn makes the new space feel uninviting. Smoothitas, for example, offered acai bowls and healthy smoothies, while nights like “General Tso’s Tuesdays” were staples in Belle Air Terrace for students. So, while many are enjoying all the “bells and whistles” of the new Wawa, some still miss the comfort of the previous Connelly Center.
“I like having a Wawa in Conn a lot, but I have to say I miss having Smoothitas, Holy Grounds and boba all in one place,” sophomore Isa Houlihan said. “The renovation seems so much more bland, and I think we’ve lost some of the culture we used to have in the decor of Conn.”
With the removal of Conn’s Holy Grounds, which had just undergone its own revamp and began offering Starbucks drinks just last August, the Bartley Hall location has shifted to online orders through the Grubhub app. What was once considered one of the last of the original Holy Grounds on campus, now exclusively serves up Starbucks. So, not only are the changes in the Connelly Center affecting the interior layout of the space, but causing ripple effects across other dining locations around campus.
While the new Conn offers a new, sleek aesthetic, many students are left missing the charm and variety that once defined the old Conn. By replacing beloved spots like Belle Aire, Smoothitas and Holy Grounds with more commercial or redundant options, the renovation feels less like an upgrade and more like a loss of identity. As Villanova continues to evolve and expand campus offerings, many hope that its defining identity isn’t lost in the process.
First-Year Housing Does Not Define One’s Experience
Kaitlin Lawrenson Staff Writer
Communal bathrooms.
Shower shoes. Paper-thin walls. One of the biggest adjustments that freshmen face during their first semester at Villanova is housing. For a majority of students, this is the first time they will be sharing a room with someone else, let alone a shower, as well. There has been a large debate sparked across campus as classes of Villanovans have come and gone, is there a good place to live during your first year? Are all dorms equal, or are some freshmen severely missing out on levels of cleanliness and privacy? I am here to break my first harsh reality of this semester which is, no matter where you live on Villanova’s campus, your experience will not be all that different.
I remember when the housing portal opened during the spring of my senior year of high school. I was eager to jump on and select my list of dorms, hoping I ended up on South Campus. Rumors spread fast, and let’s just say, the Main Campus didn’t seem like it was going to be the place to be. I was convinced that my entire first-year experience was in the hands of Residence Life. Oh, how mistaken I was.
Of course where you live matters. It is where you sleep, eat, do homework and the one private
space you have on campus. However, no matter how big or small your room is, or whether it is Delurey or Stanford, there is no way to determine how this will impact your year. It is what you make of your experience on campus, not about where you are placed.
I was lucky enough to be in St. Katharine Hall on South Campus, which is considered a prime spot. Yet, my first semester was extremely difficult trying to make friends and find places I belonged. Sure, it was nice to have an extra foot or two off in the corner of the room, but was it brightening my day after eating lunch alone? No. Freshman year is a transition no matter how you slice it and it is definitely helpful to have nice neigh-
bors or a cleaner bathroom, but it is not going to save you from the struggles of such a big transition. Make the best of your situation, no matter what that may be. A small room? Utilize the space the best you can. Is the room too stuffy? Order a fan on Amazon. The most minute details will be affected by your living situation here at Villanova. Sure, it will dictate who you meet first however it won’t determine who you ultimately decide to become and the impact you want to make during your time here.
“I love being on South Campus with other freshmen, but Villanova has such a variety of activities and clubs that provide opportunities to meet new people across all parts of campus, regardless of what dorm
they live in,” said Sarah Abboud, a freshman living on South Campus. “Because of this I’ve made friends that also live in dorms on main campus.”
There is no need to pigeon hole yourself the minute you receive your housing assignment because while it impacts your experience, it will not make or break it. If you want to put yourself out there and get to know new people, no housing assignment will stop you from doing that. The only time that your freshmen housing will truly hinder your experience is if you allow it to. Join clubs, get involved and get to know new people.
Your first year is a big adjustment on a multitude of levels, but by embracing your situation and making the best of whatever cards you have been dealt, a huge difference can be made. I understand it can be difficult feeling like you are far away from the action if you live down in Simpson or Delurey. Trust me. But, that is no reason to not put in the same effort if not more to immerse yourself in campus and your fellow first-years. At the end of the day, Villanova is not defined by cinder block walls or the number of steps it takes to get to the dining hall. It’s defined by the people you meet, the memories you create, and the ways you push yourself to grow. Freshman year is less about where you live, and more about how you choose to live it and who you choose to live it with.
Massimo
DiLeo discusses whether or not the Connelly Center transformation was necessary. Courtesy of @villanovadining
Freshmen are given little to work with, but Lawrenson describes how this does not define one’s experience. Kailey Fahy/Villanovan Photography
EDITORIAL BOARD LETTERS TO THE EDITORS
BROOKE ACKERMAN
Editor-in-Chief
NICOLE LIDDICOAT
Editor-in-Chief
LAUREN ARMSTRONG
Associate Editor-in-Chief
KAILEY FAHY
Opinion Editor
ZOE SCHACK
Opinion Editor
The Villanovan encourages all members of the Villanova community to voice their opinions. Letters to the editors may be submitted via e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com. Letters must not exceed 500 words and must be signed. No anonymous letters will be published. All submissions become property of The Villanovan and are subject to editing for clarity and space.
POLICY
The unsigned editorial that appears is the opinion of The Villanovan as determined by the majority of the Editorial Board. Other columns, letters and artwork represent the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Villanovan
To Law or Not To Law: Perspectives on Choosing the Legal Path
Juliana Burke Staff Writer
“Well, what are you going to do with your political science degree? You must be attending law school. You have to be attending law school.”
Welcome to the modern discourse surrounding post-graduate life for many liberal arts majors. The question of law school seems to follow them everywhere, and more often than not, it isn’t a question at all. Despite the widespread assumption that a postgraduate degree is essential for arts majors, many students believe it takes time to figure out what path is the right fit.
Aspiring law student junior Angela Choi spoke fondly of her summer internship this past summer at the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender, crediting the experience with solidifying her desire to pursue a legal career.
“I interned at the Office of the Public Defender, working under the Parental Representation Division this summer,” Choi said. “This experience has inspired me to explore family law in the future. I had amazing mentors who guided me through writing legal briefs, drafting motions and more. The best part of
my internship was attending Family Reunification Day, where families who had previously been separated shared their stories of reunification. It was powerful to witness the kind of work our attorneys were committed to.”
Junior Fiona Sullivan echoed this sense of purpose in her legal aspirations.
“I have a deep respect for the legal tradition, and after taking history classes in high school,” Sullivan said. “I realized that my reading and writing skills could translate well into a legal career. I’m preparing for law school by pursuing a legal studies minor as part of my undergraduate coursework.”
Dean Millard, a Villanova University alumnus and former Student Body President, spoke about his early experience as a law student and how he determined that law school was right for him.
“I was confident I wanted to attend law school because I believe the law provides unique opportunities to effect positive change,” Millard said. “During my application process, I had many conversations with law students and practicing attorneys. I was intrigued by the wide range of legal careers and the focus on helping those in need. No
one in my family had ever attended law school, so becoming a first-generation law student felt like both a challenge and a privilege. As an undergraduate at Villanova, I was involved with the Black Pre-Law Student Association from my freshman year. Through that organization, I visited various law schools in the region, attended a national pre-law conference at Harvard University, expanded my legal network and explored several law firms.”
A lot of students who have studied this path also have advice to offer current pre-law students who are simply trying to figure things out.
“I encourage applicants to work diligently, identify their ‘why’ for pursuing law school and avoid comparing themselves to others,” Millard said. “The curriculum is more rigorous than anything I experienced in undergrad, and understanding the material requires significant study time. Students must be deeply committed, even when the work becomes overwhelming. Your ‘why’ can serve as a reminder to stay resilient, on both your best and worst days. And finally, remember that everyone’s journey is different. Embrace your own.”
Villanova Charles Widger School of Law alumnus Jeffrey
Benedetto, ‘94, spoke about his reflections on law school and advice for prospective students.
“Unless you’ve always dreamed of becoming a lawyer, don’t go to law school just to check a box,” said Benedetto. “I don’t necessarily regret attending law school; it was one of the most challenging and fulfilling accomplishments I have achieved in my lifetime, but I do wish I had taken a year off after receiving my Bachelor’s to be certain it was the right decision. That would be my advice to prospective students: if you’re going to do it, do it fully and passionately.”
If you find yourself uncertain about whether law school is the right path, consider tapping into the professional resources available through the Villanova University “Career Connections” webpage. These include the pre-law newsletter, the virtual Fall 2025 Law School Fair and the mock Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025.
In the words of trial lawyer David Boies: “The practice of law is a social function that requires integrity, discipline, and ultimately, a desire to serve.”
If you have the passion and desire, everything else will fall into place.
A Welcome Improvement To The Connelly Center
Peter Fabietti Staff Writer
When @villanovadining posted pictures of what the new Connelly Center would look like on Aug. 15, it served as a shock. A complete revamp had occurred, stripping the plant-filled-ski-lodge look for more of a clean-minimalistic-spaceship thing. Quite honestly, I feared the Connelly Center was going to look like the inside of a hospital when I returned to campus. However, I realized Villanova actually did a good job with it. It’s more dynamic than the pictures made it seem, and I like the contrasting blue chairs with the white and gray walls. It’s certainly a much cleaner look than the previous Connelly Center, which, honestly, is a welcome change for me.
I’m not here to talk about the way it looks, though. As a central dining location, it does not really matter how it looks. Additionally, new students in the coming years won’t even know what the old Conn looked like, anyway. What matters is the food. I was overjoyed to learn that a new Wawa was being added into Conn. As a proud New Jerseyan, I couldn’t be happier to
have one of the best convenience stores in the nation within walking distance.
Wawa is a smart choice to have on campus because it has so much variety. Obviously, it is famous for hoagies, but it also has quesadillas, mac and cheese, chicken tenders, meatballs, pretzels, salads, bowls, soups and more. Compared to Belle Air Terrace, the options at Wawa are tenfold. Everything Wawa has to offer is also good quality, so it’s nice to know I can get a variety of good-quality meals to keep things fresh throughout the week.
Generally, it seems that students are happy to have Wawa on campus. However, there seems to be one common critique among them.
“The Wawa is really good, but I’m mad it doesn’t take meals,” junior Baily Keeley said.
“I love the Wawa, but if you want food that’s similar to what Belle Air had, you have to get Wawa with points,” junior Kaitlyn Walker said.
“I think you should be allowed to use a meal for the Wawa,” junior Kyla Armistad said.
The call for meals is a valid critique. Belle Air was such a central dining spot on campus that took meal swipes and now that option
has been completely eliminated. Even though Wawa is a separate entity from Villanova, I don’t see why the meal plan shouldn’t work with it. A meal is equal to $9.25, so why wouldn’t that carry over to Wawa? If one gets something within the meal price range, they should be able to solely use a meal swipe.
Moving on from the Wawa, I think Nova Noodle Co. and the new sushi place are great additions to the Connelly Center. Of course, the sushi was a massive hit last semester, and I’m glad some more options were added. I tried the chicken teriyaki bowl from the noodle restaurant this week, and I was quite impressed. However, my only complaint would be the portion size. If I paid $9.25 for such a tiny bowl at an actual restaurant, I’d be pretty mad. It seems that other Villanova students agree with me.
“The noodle place is very solid, but the portions should be bigger,” junior Luke Fabietti said.
“Everyone I know thinks the portion sizes should be larger,” junior Beau Mowery said.
I think it would be a good idea to be able to do a combo from both places equivalent to one meal swipe. If Nova Noodle Co.’s portion sizes don’t change, one bowl and
one sushi roll should be equivalent to a meal. Quite honestly, since I’ve been back at school, I feel like I’m starving from these tiny portions. Is it too much to ask for just a slightly bigger bowl?
Lastly, I just have one more question to ask: where is Smoothitas? Villanova revamped its smoothies about halfway through last semester, and now the options seem to be completely gone.
“You can get a smoothie at Wawa now, but at Smoothitas, you could use a meal,” Kaitlyn Walker said.
Obviously, I understand that Wawa sells its own smoothies, but it’s sad to see that Smoothitas’s unique ones have been removed from Conn. From the looks of it, Smoothitas provided different options from what Wawa currently sells, including acai bowls.
Overall, though, I really like the changes made to the Connelly Center.
Wawa is a fantastic option to have on campus, and I love Villanova’s commitment to diversifying lunch options with the additional noodle and sushi places. Many Villanovans will be spending this semester trying out all the options the new Connelly Center truly has to offer.
CULTURE
Finding Your Place: Involvement Fair 2025
Scarlet Shafie Staff Writer
Something you’ll repeatedly hear used to describe the Villanova student body is our emphasis on “involvement culture.” We’re a passionate community and the involvement of our student body reflects just that. This spirit was immediately evident through the annual Student Involvement Fair held on Mendel Field this past Friday, Sept. 6.
The energy at the event was palpable. As students filled the field, they observed tables lined with colorful posters, giveaways and countless GroupMe QR codes. It was the perfect showcase of how passionate Villanovans are about getting involved and a particularly exciting time for new students.
Villanova is home to more than 300 student organizations. Offerings range from academic to service to cultural to fraternity and sorority life and everything in between. With so many options, every student has the chance to take on leadership roles and make lasting connections and memories that shape their college experience.
No matter how involved one is, the opportunity to learn about our campus community should never be overlooked. Villanova’s student organizations are constantly growing and evolving. There is always an incredible new opportunity to discover that one may otherwise never encounter.
During Friday’s festivities, I had the opportunity to participate as both an attendee and a representative for some of my favorite on-campus organizations. Even as a sophomore, I found myself discovering and signing up for new clubs.
So, to all my upperclass-
men out there, never overlook the Involvement Fair.
One way to get involved on campus is through academic organizations. From accounting to optometry, people are bound to find a community that aligns with your personal educational journey. The Society for Women in STEM (SWIS) is an exemplary organization that one can join to explore their passions.
“[SWIS is] an amazing group of women who gather for bonding events, mentorship, panels and so much more,” sophomore Eileen English said, while reflecting on her role as the club’s Director of Events. “SWIS provides us with an opportunity to learn from professionals, ask questions and share in community.”
Whether you are looking to network, find mentorship or deepen your education, academic organizations make Villanova a center for personal and professional flourishing.
Another fantastic way to participate is through cultural, religious and identity-based organizations. Villanova is proud to be reminded that its strength lies in the diversity of its students and the communities they build. Organizations like the Villanova Middle Eastern Student Association (VMESA) are shining examples of this.
Co-president Aya M’Nadi echoed.
“We are dedicated to supporting students of Middle Eastern origin in building a strong community and creating a home away from home on campus,” M’Nadi said. “Our mission is to bring students together through cultural, educational and social events that celebrate the rich and diverse traditions of Middle Eastern culture.”
Associations like VMESA
empower students to create spaces where they can honor their heritage, share traditions and cultivate belonging.
The Student Involvement Fair is a time-honored tradition at Villanova, uniting students through shared passions and creating the beautiful Villanovan culture we all know and love. Regardless of the group, this annual fair is vital. It helps student organizations pro-
mote their mission, recruit new members and kick off the school year.
Those still searching for involvement opportunities after the fair, shouldn’t fret. Villanova has hundreds of ways to get connected. While we may be partial to inviting you to rush The Villanovan, every organization offers something special. Take the leap, explore what excites you and get involved, Villanova.
Campus Culture: What to Expect this Semester
Sophie Latessa Co-Culture Editor
Continued from p.1
will also be putting on a production of The Prom, with Villanova Student Theatre staging QUEENS.
A cappella, a campus staple made up of eight different groups, will come together to hold AcaSpolooza on Oct. 9 to support Special Olympics, with all groups also performing on Family Weekend and Homecoming. Each group will have an individual winter concert later in the semester. Villanova also boasts two choral groups: the Villanova Singers and Villanova Voices.
Throughout the semester, be on the lookout for shows featuring Villanova’s talented dancers. This includes the Dance Company and Ensemble and many other talented student groups specializing in tap, hip-hop, step, African fusion, South Asian and Bolly -
wood and Irish dance. In terms of instrumentals, look for performances from the Chamber Strings and Jazz Ensemble.
Falvey, ACS and so much
more Falvey Library constantly hosts events including guest speak -
ers in the Falvey Speaker’s Corner, research workshops and even a BYOB (Bring Your Own Book) club.
Students can also expect many ACS events, including the ACS concert series, to take place in the coming months (freshmen, I’m looking at you).
Beyond this, on-campus activities like comedy shows; art galleries; diversity, equity and inclusion events and Office of Health Promotion workshops are sure to provide entertainment and education for students. From CAT album listening parties to events like last semester’s Women’s Network vision board-making night, there is something happening for everyone.
Get ready. Here comes a shameless plug: to stay updated on all these on-campus happenings, as well as fashion trends on campus, timely movie and song suggestions, relationship advice and more, read the culture section (and The Villanovan in general). Happy reading and here’s to a great semester.
The staff of The Villanovan at the Involvement Fair. NicoleLiddicoat/VillanovanPhotography
Letters From Lauren: First Lasts And Last Firsts
Lauren Armstrong Associate Editor-in-Chief
Dear Class of 2026,
On Aug. 24, around 6:15 p.m, I was standing on Austin Field watching the incoming students in the Class of 2029 and transfer students enjoy the last event of their Orientation - the Wawa picnic. An event and program I had spent the entire spring semester and summer planning were coming to an end. At that moment, it hit me: this was my first last moment on campus. I would never again be wearing my Orientation bucket hat and name tag, instead I would be hanging them on the wall of my room in the Commons as a piece of decoration and memorabilia.
The following day, those of us in the Class of 2026 celebrated our last first day of classes. We tried to avoid the forbidden “S” word: seniors. Instead, we joked about this being the first day of 16th grade, not wanting to admit that this was the last one. Yet, after the first few days of the semester, there became an unspoken agreement between us to embrace it, and we stood together celebrating the little wins that come with this scary new title.
Initially, I was going to start this letter by saying, “happy senior year,” but it did not feel right. I feel it more appropriate to use the
word “bittersweet.” We are in our last lap around campus, and with graduation creeping closer and closer everyday, we have begun our first lasts and our last firsts.
One thing is for certain, it is up to us to decide how we want to treat these moments, and I urge us seniors to take in every moment, to be fully present and to live every day of senior year as if it is our last. After all, we only have 251 more days here on campus.
This can look different for us all. For some, taking a million pictures a day and recording every moment feels right as a way to be able to look back at these times. For others, it may be the opposite, leaving your phones behind in order to be fully present with the people you love. There is no right answer, just what feels most natural to oneself.
The beginning of senior year is also a time to reflect on the growth we have all experienced here at Villanova. Not one of us in the Class of 2026 will be walking the stage in May as the same person that walked into Villanova as a new student. This is a good thing. While college is a time to deepen your education, it is also a place to grow into the person you are meant to become.
Three years ago, I sat on the campus green and was greeted by the 2022 Orientation theme: “curiosity invites possibilities; where will they take you?” The
curiosity of what possibilities Villanova had in store for me led me to joining The Villanovan . It led me to apply to be an Orientation staff member. It pushed me to become a better person by surrounding myself with better people. For myself, and many of you, the push to see where these possibilities would take us led to finding the communities and people that will make it so hard to say goodbye in just a few months.
Seniors, while the end is scary, we still have so many last firsts in store for us this year. We have basketball tailgates, new classes and professors, the opportunity to join clubs that have inter-
ested us in the past and so much more. If curiosity invites possibility, then senior year invites intention. It is not just about where we are heading, but who we are taking our journeys with. I am excited to be able to take this journey with you all, and cannot wait to see us all grow over our last moments here at Villanova. So, a toast to the bittersweet beginning of senior year. To the year of first lasts and last firsts. Let’s make some memories and live a senior year well lived.
With Love Always, Lauren
The Re-Opening Of The Connelly Center
Cali Carss Co-Culture Editor
Monday, Aug. 25, 2025 marked not only the first day of school on Villanova’s campus, but also the official opening of the brand-new Connelly Center. The updates to the beloved student center were the topic of many conversations over the summer, and students came back to campus eager to see how the building had changed; and changed it certainly has. With three new dining opportunities, including the central Wawa, more seating and an incredibly bright new interior, there is quite a lot to take in. Returning students in particular can be seen marveling at the differences as they walk through the “Conn” they know so well.
As for the opening festivities, there was a lot packed into Monday’s schedule. New events and tables popped up throughout the day and dining services ran a social media contest with a host of prompts to fulfill for the chance of winning prizes.
The re-opening event officially began at 10 a.m. with “Wawa Hour,” where a table with a t-shirt giveaway and prize wheel were set up next to the new sushi station. Representatives remained there for most of the day, handing out prizes like tote bags and bucket hats to students who approached to spin the Wawa Wheel. The more exciting and fleeting part of this first hour, though, was
a visit from Wawa’s own mascot, the Goose. It wandered around taking pictures, and many students who arrived at the Connelly Center later in the day were disappointed to hear they had missed this moment.
The social media contest officially kicked off during the “Mid-Morning Mixer,” just before the main event started at noon. Regardless of the themed hours, Dining Services announced that their representatives would be available to discuss meal plans, allergy concerns and more.
The central hour of the day featured none other than Villanova’s mascot Will D. Cat for a Mascot Meet & Greet. Upon his arrival, Will D. Cat decided, instead of heading straight to his post, to wander around the Con -
nelly Center interacting with students and taking photos with the workers at some of the tables. He then set his sights on Wawa, which was extremely busy at that point in the day. Will D. Cat offered a comedic reprieve to the students crowding into Wawa waiting for their orders. He took pictures, explored and even bought a snack.
But even with this celebrity appearance, most students’ favorite part of this re-opening event was the tasting table with free bites of the new sushi and rice bowls on offer.
“Sushi is one of my favorite foods, so I was really happy to see that they expanded the menu over the summer and that they were giving out free samples,” junior Abby Contessa said.
These tables were intended
to be set up around 3 p.m., but the samples were set up much earlier in the day, allowing more students to try out these new options and creating a lot of excitement around them.
The final hours were labelled “Afternoon Chill & Recharge” and featured giveaways from Barnes & Noble and Villanova Athletics. These prizes generated more interest, although these are not the busiest hours in the Connelly Center, after a full day of Wawa branded products.
These themed hours and activities, along with the decorations, music and overall atmosphere made the Connelly Center feel very festive and heightened student excitement for a great year ahead.
The 2025 Steering Committee. Lauren Armstrong/Villanovan Photography
Dining Services offered free samples from Nova Noodle Company and Sushi Do. Cali Carss/Villanovan Photography
Will D. Cat in the new Wawa. Cali Carss/Villanoavan Photography
Men’s Soccer Off To Best Start Since 2021
Dylan Johnson Co-Sports Editor
Continued from p.1
(Yagudayev) is once he got in against St. Joe’s, he made some key saves for us,” Fetrow said. “He organized the game really well, and he got the clean sheet, and then going to Columbia, we thought he had another good performance. So we will be just riding the hot hand day in and day out and really trying to use the competition between the two [goalkeepers].”
Redshirt sophomore Luke Martelli was able to get a shot on goal for Villanova seven minutes into the game. Columbia’s goalkeeper was able to make the save and keep the game scoreless.
Four minutes after Materlli’s attempt, junior forward Sam Nyenka netted a goal off a throw-in, but a foul erased the goal. Within the first 25 minutes, the Wildcats had six shot attempts to Columbia’s zero.
“I thought the guys really carried out our game plan well,” Fetrow said. “We really tried to get them to jam their wing backs into our wing backs as Columbia was playing pretty much the same shape as us. It would have been great to nab one, because goals change games. Unfortunately, with that goal getting called back, we couldn’t accomplish it, but it was a really good start.”
Columbia was able to respond to Villanova, firing off five unanswered shot attempts. One of the
attempts was on goal.
The score was tied, 0-0, at halftime, with six shot attempts each. In the second half, both teams generated shot attempts but were unable to successfully score any of them.
Sophomore forward Fynn Lahrsen led the Wildcats with three shot attempts. Villanova finished with 15 shot attempts, with three of them on goal.
“We’re putting a lot of responsibility on our young guys to grow up and mature quickly,” Fetrow said. It’s not easy transitioning into the college game, and when you have a little bit of lack of experience at the collegiate level, it takes some time to evolve and adapt. Finn proved throughout the preseason that he could be a guy who could be really dangerous for us.”
With 10 minutes left in regulation, Villanova attempted to net a goal three times, along with a corner kick. The Wildcats were unsuccessful in all three attempts.
Against the most difficult opponent of the early season, Villanova was able to keep things tied heading into halftime, but two late goals from Army sealed the game.
The Wildcats had control over the first 45 minutes of the match, generating four shots while keeping Army’s skilled offense, allowing zero shot attempts. Senior defender Foday Bangura was responsible for Villanova’s lone shot on goal in the first half.
It was a scoreless game at halftime.
At the start of the second half,
Lahrsen had Villanova’s second and final shot on goal, but Army’s goalkeeper was able to easily save it.
Villanova drew a penalty inside its own box, which awarded Army a penalty kick that was converted for a goal.
While trailing by just one goal with 23 minutes left in the game, an eventual game-sealing mistake by Yagudayev stretched Army’s lead to two goals. As a defender was attempting to get the ball to Yagudayev, he accidentally put too much power on the kick, resulting in Villanova scoring on its own goal.
In just five minutes, the game went from tied to Villanova being stuck in a two-goal deficit.
The Wildcats were able to generate anything on offense for the remainder of the game. A free kick was awarded to Villanova in
the game’s final minutes, but it was blocked by Army’s goalkeeper. “We wanted to use the first third of the season with these non-conference games to prepare for the Big East, establish what we were doing within our system and establish some roles,” Fetrow said. “Guys feeling really comfortable with their roles, maximize their performance. It’s been a really enjoyable season, working with this group of guys that have been really committed to each other, committed to the same mission, doing everything we can to get 1% better every day.”
Villanova now returns home Saturday, Sept. 13 to host Princeton (1-0) on Alumni Day at Higgins Soccer Complex (ESPN+, 1 p.m.). It will be the first time the two teams face off since 2017 when Princeton defeated Villanova, 2-0.
Inside Villanova’s NIL Strategy After House Settlement
Katie Lewis Co-Sports Editor
On July 1, 2025, the Villanova Athletic Department’s operations transformed, seemingly overnight.
Federal approval of the House v. NCAA settlement on June 8 legalized direct revenue sharing between universities and student-athletes. As a result, university athletic programs nationwide now have the ability to directly pay student athletes for their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL). At Villanova, the new Strategic Excellence Fund (VASE) will funnel donor contributions to programs and student-athletes.
University Vice President and Director of Athletics Eric Roedl spent the summer establishing his priorities in the wake of the House settlement and strategizing how to make the most of Villanova’s athletic revenue. While it is a concerning time for many coaches and players navigating the new system, Roedl sees a realm of new opportunity to build Villanova’s brand.
Roedl, who started at Villanova in January, had been preparing for the waves of change in the NCAA since he was in his previous role at the University of Oregon.
“There’s a lot more financial pressure on how we operate
because of all the new permissible benefits that we can provide to student-athletes,” Roedl said in an interview with The Villanovan. “The challenge we have is that we’ve got a broad-based 24-sport program, and we don’t have unlimited resources, so we have to try to figure out what those levers are that we’re going to pull.”
The settlement’s impact extends beyond revenue sharing, as the NCAA no longer regulates athletic scholarships and instead limits roster sizes in specific sports. Most significantly, the settlement requires back-pay damages for former athletes who were unable to profit from NIL. According to the VASE website, Villanova will have a $500,000 per year reduction in NCAA revenues from 2016 to 2021.
Since 2021, NIL opportunities for Villanova student-athletes stemmed from its external collective, Friends of Nova, managed by former basketball player Randy Foye and current assistant coach Ashley Howard. The organization will continue to work with the Athletic Department, while its role has evolved.
“Friends of Nova has done a great job with community engagement and personal development opportunities for our student-athletes, whether it’s financial literacy or leadership development,” Roedl said. “They’re really
like an NIL maximization partner. They’re still involved with a lot of donor cultivation and relationships that we have, and trying to help raise money for the University.”
VASE, meanwhile, will primarily benefit Villanova’s highest-revenue programs: men’s and women’s basketball.
The University determines how to distribute its resources based on which athletic programs generate the most revenue and how much funding is required to ensure that Villanova can remain competitive when it comes to recruiting and retaining talented players.
Many of Villanova’s competitors must now split up to $20.5 million — the NCAA’s cap on revenue sharing — between large football and basketball programs. But according to Roedl, the University is in a unique position in which its Division-I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) program does not demand the same level of funding as FBS programs. This allows Villanova to channel more of its resources toward basketball.
“Football is going to be a really big priority for us,” Roedl said. “There are not a lot of programs out there that are committed to winning championships in basketball that are also supporting FCS-level football at a high level.”
While basketball tends to dominate Villanova’s campus culture around athletics, Roedl sees
Villanova’s football program as a major area of growth in terms of marketing and community engagement.
Bringing his experience from managing Oregon’s Big 10 football powerhouse, Roedl hopes to continue cultivating a game-day atmosphere that will galvanize students, alumni, and local fans alike. The Athletic Department’s efforts will surround the marketing and promotion of football games, in addition to improving the tailgate experience.
“I want students to wake up on a Saturday morning and know that [football] is a big part of what it means to be a Villanovan,” Roedl said. “We need to continue to do a better job of building excitement and energy around our football program.”
As Villanova competes with the most well-funded athletic programs in the country, Roedl is not concerned so much with falling behind as he is with getting ahead of the new demands that the House settlement places on top collegiate athletic departments.
“We’re going to be aggressive, proactive and bold with how we try to position our programs to be successful,” Roedl said. “You can see why Villanova is a national-caliber program that’s won national championships, because we’ve got great alignment here from the campus community.”
Villanova has had three shutouts this season. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
Catching Up With The ‘Cats: Hezekiah Lewis (‘99, ‘02)
Dylan Johnson Co-Sports Editor
Award-winning filmmaker Hezekiah Lewis (’99 CLAS, ’02 MA) was only 10 years old when a white van drove up and parked outside while he was playing video games at his home in San Bernardino, CA. Police filed out of the van, knocked down his door and pointed guns at his family.
His entire life changed in an instant.
At one point, while Lewis was growing up, San Bernardino was ranked the worst place to raise a child.
“At 10, I am seeing real life,” Lewis said. “For me, I am looking at my uncle taking guns out of our attic and running them out. My stepfather was a big-time drug dealer. Learning about drugs and violence at an early age motivated me not to get into drugs and violence.”
Now, Lewis sat in his dimly lit office describing his childhood, nestled in a corner of Villanova University’s Garey Hall, where he is an assistant professor and Director of the Waterhouse Family Institute. In the past two decades, he has produced 17 films and directed three.
He graduated from Villanova with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and communication, with minors in theatre, Africana studies and business and a master’s degree in fine arts.
Sports, specifically football, became his outlet as a teenager to stay focused and out of trouble. Despite the lack of emphasis on education in San Bernardino, Lewis prioritized his learning in the classroom at Cajon High School.
“Coming from the west side of San Bernardino, you had about four high schools in that area,” Lewis said. “But these high schools didn’t have the proper education. I just feel like there was an inequality in the resources that were given to certain students.”
He committed to Villanova on a full-ride football scholarship. He ended his college football career as a three-year co-captain on the football team, and earned four seasons of all-conference and all-academic honors.
And, one of his proudest collegiate moments was meeting his now wife, Leashia (Rahr) Lewis (‘00 CLAS, ‘02 MA).
“I came in as a pre-med major, and they gave me, like, four classes,” Lewis said. “It was, like, geography and something else. From that point on, I said, ‘I’m going to take advantage of my education, because I feel like now you’re trying to softball me.’”
Twenty-one credits. It was an abnormal workload, but Lewis pushed himself to hit those credits every semester while jumping around majors from pre-medical to biology.
Eventually, he rediscovered his passion for the arts in a place he would least expect it: the stage. Starring in Villanova’s production of “Once on This Island” lit a fire inside Lewis to return to the arts.
Lewis completed film school at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 2007 with a master of fine arts in directing.
He won an honorable mention for the DGA Film Award’s best African American filmmaker award for his film “Memoirs of a Smoker” and then won the award for Best African-American Student Filmmaker on the West Coast for his thesis project film, “Warrior Queen.”
He shot his thesis project in Ghana. It tells the true story of an African queen named Nana Yaa Asantewaa and her rise in arms against the British in the early 1900s.
While creating the film, Lewis was introduced to the concept of slave castles for the first time.
“I had no idea there were slave castles,” Lewis said. “I’m learning that there were factories that were selling people that looked like me. Why is that history being hidden? So that’s when I made ‘Warrior Queen.’ I was, like, ‘This is it. This is what I want to do for the rest of my life.’”
Since returning to Villanova, he has overseen the annual social justice documentary that Villanova students film, direct and produce.
“He’s super humble and full of knowledge,” senior communication major Natalie Zickel said. “He only speaks when he has something to say, and when he does, it’s super important. He’s one of those professors that you really learn from every single time he talks.”
Zickel was the multimedia producer and a part of the sound team for the crew’s film in the Philippines last year.
Lewis took the documentary international when he returned to Ghana with the students in 2019. The documentary, “Sankofa,” went on to win a Student Oscar for Best Documentary. Other documentary locations have included Italy, Costa Rica, Tanzania, Kenya, Brazil and the Philippines.
Every documentary has highlighted and continues to highlight social issues across the globe and has brought awareness and change. Lewis recognizes that filmmaking cannot change the world,
WEEKLY SCOREBOARD
Sept. 3- Sept. 9
Friday, September 5
Field Hockey @ Fairfield 2-5 L
Volleyball vs Yale 3-2 W
Men’s Soccer @ Columbia 0-0 T
Saturday, September 6
Volleyball vs. Farfield 3-1 W
Football vs. Colgate 24-17 W
Sunday, September 7
Golf @ Alex Lagowitz Memorial 3rd of 14
Volleyball vs. High Point 3-1 W
Women’s Soccer vs. Lehigh 4-0 W
Monday, September 8
Men’s Soccer @ Army 0-2 L
but it gives an outlet to open people’s minds to what is happening.
“On these trips, he just goes up to random taxi drivers or store owners and asks them about their families and makes small conversations,” Zickel said. “And in those small conversations, it develops into there’s always a ‘why’ behind people’s actions. And what is that ‘why?’”
After shooting a film in two Tanzanian villages, Lewis and his crew were able to raise more than $90,000 to install solar water wells in the villages.
This year, the documentary crew of 17 students, led by Lewis, is headed to Morocco to produce another film with the goal of telling another untold story.
“There are so many beautiful stories out there that it’s hard to turn films away because you want to also help as many people as you can,” Lewis said. “One thing I tell my students all the time in this program is that we’re not giving voice to the voices. They always have voices. We’re amplifying those voices with the resources that we have in telling stories.”
Lewis is currently an assitant professor and Director of the Waterhouse Family Insitute. Natalie Zickel/Villanovan Photography
Lewis with the social documentary crew in the Phillipines last year. Natalie Zickel/Villanovan Photography
Volleyball Starts 5-0 For First Time Since 2009
Genna Cottingham Sports Columnist
The annual Villanova Classic took place at Jake Nevin Fieldhouse this past weekend. The ‘Cats hosted Yale, Fairfield and High Point University in a threeday tournament. Villanova volleyball swept its competition, 3-0, to start the season 5-0 for the first time since 2009.
Riding a monumental, 3-2 win against Notre Dame on Aug. 31, the ‘Cats headed into the Villanova Classic with momentum.
Junior outside hitter Abby Harrell continued her dominance, leading the team in kills with 52 across the three games. The Wildcats were able to down Yale, 3-2, in five sets while taking down Fairfield and High Point in four sets.
“The national reputation of Notre Dame and all the things that come along with that, to beat them out there was a really good start,” head coach Josh Steinbach said. “I think it just gave us a really good morale boost getting us going for the rest of the year.”
The ‘Cats had their home opener at Jake Nevin Fieldhouse on Friday night. Villanova defeated Yale, 3-2 (28-26, 25-22, 20-25, 17-25, 15-9). Harrell accumulated 20 kills, as well as 17 digs.
“They’re dialed in and focused,” Steinbach said. “The kids have worked really hard, so they’re
in really good physical shape. I’m not too worried about how tired they are. They’re ready to roll.”
Rookie setter Ava Harris aided her fellow Wildcats with 31 assists. Middle blocker Campbell McKinnon returned for her sophomore year with her undeniable force, receiving 19 kills, two aces and two blocks against Yale alone.
The second game of the weekend, ended in a 3-1 win against Fairfield on Saturday afternoon. After losing in the second set, the ‘Cats shifted their focus to win the final two (25-15, 20-25, 25-10, 25-15).
Harrell added 15 kills to her career total, including three aces. Sophomore setter Alyssa Nelson was able to pull off 22 assists against the Stags.
“The captains are Alyssa Nelson and Sophia Stalkup,” Steinbach said. “Those two are doing a really good job and are in touch with our team keeping us on track when we start to get a little off, but I think our group has really dialed in on being the best they can be this year.”
Yet another sophomore dominated the court again, libero Lola Buck-Taylor achieved 13 digs and three assists. Harris’ skills were also on full display to reach 25 assists, along with eight digs to close out the win against Fairfield. The tournament ended with a five-set match against High Point (25-15, 27-25, 19-25, 25-14). The ‘Cats went into the game, 4-0, for
the season already, with a lot of pressure on their backs, and Villanova volleyball pulled off a win.
Some new faces appeared on the court this weekend. Opposite hitter graduate student Ava Mehrten is one of the new Wildcats this season. Mehrten played four years at UC Berkeley and made her debut on Sunday with four blocks.
“She’s been a nice addition,” Steinbach said. “She’s a great personality, works really hard. Everybody likes having her
on our squad.”
McKinnon and Harrell led the team in kills on Sunday afternoon with 17 each. Nelson returned to the court to help the ‘Cats with 24 assists and 11 digs. Villanova looks to continue their historical winning streak into their third week of play. On Wednesday, Sept. 10, the ‘Cats are scheduled to play Temple in Philadelphia. This upcoming weekend, Villanova will travel to Norfolk, VA for the Old Dominion Invitational.
Women’s Soccer Starts Season On Four Game Win Streak
Jack McFadden Staff Writer
On Sunday, Sept. 7, Villanova women’s soccer team took on Lehigh in a strong one-sided affair, in which they earned a 4-0 victory. With the win, the Wildcats extended their early-season win streak to four games. Following the success, head coach Samar Azem is resolute for the team to look ahead to the next contest and upcoming conference play next weekend.
“The win streak is awesome, but we’ve got to look at it as what’s in the ‘here and now,’” Azem said. “The win streak is in the past. What’s in the ‘here and now’ is what we’ve got to do in training on Tuesday.”
In the first half, the Wildcats put on display some of the best soccer they have played so far this season. Villanova out-shot Lehigh, 7-2, and scored all four goals before halftime.
The Villanova offense maintained the intensity throughout the game, with several looks off crosses into the box and effective finishes from graduate forward Hannah Curtin and freshman forward Avrie Nelsen.
Curtin scored the first goal 14:06 into play, with an assist from junior forward Alex Little. Less than three minutes later, Nelsen knocked in a solo goal to give the Wildcats a 2-0 lead.
Sophomore midfielder Amalia Cardo put in a third goal, at the 32:40 mark, assisted by
Little and sophomore forward Morgan Kotch. The final goal belonged to Kotch shortly before the half, at 42:14. Despite the onslaught of goals in the first half, much of the team’s success came on the defensive end, in which the Wildcats were relentless. Villanova played with high pressure and aggression from whistle to whistle, forcing turnovers as Lehigh struggled to control the ball on offense.
Sophomore defender Meredith Palmer had a strong game, serving as the centerpiece of the Villanova defense. Palmer con -
trolled clears and was one of the loudest players on the field, along with senior goalkeeper Hannah Dickinson. As a younger player, Palmer embraced the role as a lead voice on defense, as she was in constant communication with her other teammates throughout the game.
“I think that communication is something that’s really important, and we’ve worked on it a lot because we talk about the better you are without the ball, the more you’ll have it,” Palmer said. “I think that it’s really cool that I get to be one of the defenders that
really holds that [role].”
According to Palmer, Villanova’s aggression and strong team communication were key to outplaying a tough opponent in Lehigh, especially on the defensive end.
“We like to play a more aggressive style of press,” Palmer said. “We used to sit back and kind of hold and absorb, but we want to be more aggressive now, which gives us more opportunities to get forward and get crosses in, which we’ve done an amazing job of.”
Following the win, the Wildcats extended their hot streak to four games after losing twice to start the season against Michigan and Wake Forest.
“Something that’s important for us is not to over-correct,” Azem said. “We knew the first game was one against Michigan, and we felt like we really should have walked away with a win in that one. And there were a lot of lessons that we learned. Each game is an opportunity to get back in the lab, to do some digging into how we can perfect what we’re doing, what we’re about, what our identity is about and then get back out there.”
Villanova looks to continue its winning streak this week at Princeton on Thursday, Sept. 11 and at University of Pennsylvannia on Sunday, Sept. 14.
The Wildcats will then start conference play at home on Sept. 20 against Seton Hall. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m.
Sophomore Campbell McKinnon has been a key piece for Villanova with 19 kills. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Hannah Curtin was named to the Big East Weekly Honor Roll on Monday. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
Wildcat Watch: Volleyball Freshman Mina Diggs
Genna Cottingham Sports Columnist
Whether it is playing on travel club teams, in holiday tournaments or simply at high school practices, Division I athletes devote a lot of time and effort to their sport. However, few high schoolers excel in multiple sports. Villanova volleyball freshman Mina Diggs was one of those student-athletes who could do it all.
Diggs not only played volleyball in Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills, Ohio, but she also had varsity letters in softball and track & field. She played varsity softball her freshman and sophomore years, then decided her talents were best suited for volleyball.
“I wasn’t really that serious about softball,” Diggs said. “It was more of a fun sport for me. So, it really interfered with my tourna -
ments and my practices. I knew that it wasn’t going to be taking me anywhere, so I instead just decided to quit so that I could focus on volleyball.”
The 5’5” freshman played eight years of club volleyball, three of which were with Academy Volleyball Cleveland (AVC), which was 20 minutes away from her home in University Heights.
“I started playing when I was in second grade,” Diggs said. “My sister got me into it. She’s two years older than me. So, obviously, I did everything she did.”
In 2024, Diggs was named a USAV 17 national runner-up. She led her high school to win the 2024 OSHAA Girls Volleyball State Championships Division III when they defeated Ursuline Academy on Nov. 8, 3-1.
The college recruitment process can be overwhelming for high school athletes. Diggs focused
on her skill level to grow as a player. Between AVC, Gilmour Academy and tournaments, she began receiving recognition. She had toured a few schools, but dreamed about playing for Villanova.
“After talking to a lot of schools, I realized I could imagine myself doing this, and then when I visited Villanova, I could literally imagine myself there,” Diggs said.
Diggs announced her verbal commitment on her social media on April 10, 2024, and Villanova officially announced her commitment on Nov. 14, 2024.
“Mina is a dynamic defender with really good passing skills,” Villanova volleyball head coach Josh Steinbach told Villanova Athletics. “She sees the game at a high level and will be able to compete in our league on arrival.”
The volleyball team does summer workouts and camps, so the team arrives on Villanova’s campus much earlier than the rest of the student body. This allowed Diggs to acclimate to college life before classes even began.
“Since [my teammates and I] were the only ones here, I was able to get really close with all of them,” Diggs said.
Diggs is joined by three fellow freshman teammates from across the country. Setter Ava Harris hails from Angola, Indiana. Middle blocker Reagan McGivern got her start in Topeka, Kansas. Libero and defensive specialist Marikate Ritterbusch grew up in
Palatine, Illinois.
Two more athletes have joined the Villanova volleyball roster. Graduate student Emma Vu calls Allen, Texas home. Vu played three seasons with Iona University before becoming a Wildcat.
Opposite hitter Ava Mehrten played four seasons at UC Berkeley. The California native is now also a graduate student at Villanova.
“We’re just excited about the way the group is,” Steinbach said. “They’re dialed in and focused, so it just makes it really easy.”
Just two weeks into the volleyball season, the Wildcats are 5-0 for the first time in 16 years. With new players and returning powerhouses of junior outside hitter Abby Harrell and sophomore middle blocker Campbell McKinnon, Villanova aims to make it to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2015.
Field Hockey Falls To Fairfield On The Road
Dylan Johnson Staff Writer
Villanova field hockey is currently winless to start its season. The Wildcats first fell to James Madison University, 3-2, on August 29, then to the University of Maryland, 4-0, two days later. The most recent loss came this weekend on Friday, Sept. 5, as Villanova fell to Fairfield, 5-2, on the road.
“We had two preseason scrimmages, one against Rutgers, we beat them, and then one against Delaware, we beat them,” head coach Joaine Milhous said. “So I thought they were really good games to lead us into very tough JMU and Maryland. And then against JMU, I think we had kind of a slow start. I feel like we haven’t started off any of our games with a strong first quarter.”
Against Fairfield, Villanova (0-3) found itself in foul trouble early, collecting 14 of its 25 fouls in the first half. Fairfield (2-2) picked up 22 fouls, but it was able to net three of its eight shots on goal in the first half. The ‘Cat’s two goals both came on the team’s only shots on net. Villanova trailed by two goals at the start of the fourth quarter. However, two late fourth-quarter goals from Fairfield buried any chances of a comeback.
Junior Maddi Sears start -
ed in goal for the Wildcats and blocked a Fairfield shot early in the first quarter. Freshman Sophie Volkel replaced Sears before the end of the first period. Volkel finished the game with two saves and two goals allowed. Villanova fell into penalty trouble in the first and second periods.
Junior back Addie Froehlich took several shots, but all were blocked by the Stags’ goalkeeper. Villanova entered halftime down, 3-0.
“[Farfield] totally jumped us,” Milhous said. “And that was us again having a slow start and being reactive instead of proactive. I wish we could take back that game. I think we’re good. I think we just need to consistently show it and consistently be disciplined. So, I think Fairfield just capitalized on their opportunities, and we didn’t
give ourselves many opportunities to actually capitalize on.”
After nearly 40 minutes of play, junior back Gemma Lysaght netted Villanova’s first goal of the game off an assist from junior back Carey Werley. However, the ‘Cats found themselves in foul trouble as the third quarter came to a close. Fifth-year forward Ava Borkowski picked up a green card.
Another green card was given to the junior midfielder Jane Bresnahan at the start of the fourth quarter. Seconds later, Borkowski returned to knock in Villanova’s second goal of the game. Borkowski now has three goals on the season.
The Wildcats trailed the Stags, 4-2, with almost a full quarter left to play. Fairfield, however, found a late goal as time wound down, sealing its win.
This weekend, field hockey will host La Salle for its home opener. “We’re really excited about this game, because it is our home opener, the student game, which we’re super excited about,” Milhous said. “Hopefully, we’ll get some nice attendance, but we’re ready to be on our field. We’ve got a lot of pride that we need to start showing. I can say that we have talent, but the scoreboard’s going to make the difference, and every player knows it and is committed to it.”
Villanova field hockey has two games this upcoming weekend.
On Friday afternoon, the Wildcats will host the Explorers at The Proving Grounds in Conshohocken, PA. (3 p.m.). Villanova will then travel to Hempstead, NY, to take on Hofstra University.
Freshman Mina Diggs joins the Wildcats from Gates Mills, OH. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
Villanova field hockey is starting the season 0-3, suffering a 5-2 loss to Fairfield on Friday, Sept. 5.
Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
Just two weeks into the volleyball season, the Wildcats are 5-0 for the first time in 16 years. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Genna Cottingham Sports Columnist
Preview: Villanova Football Takes On No. 2 Penn State
James Haupt Staff Writer
Villanova football is heading into one of its most exciting matchups in recent memory as it takes on No. 2 Penn State on Saturday, Sept. 13. This FCS x FBS crossover will start at 3:30 p.m. in Beaver Stadium.
The Wildcats (1-0) are coming off a 24-17 win against Colgate. Penn State, currently ranked as the second-best team in the nation, is an entirely different type of opponent than Villanova is used to facing. The Nittany Lions (2-0) started the season with blowout wins over Florida International University and Nevada.
Saturday is a chance for the ‘Cats to prove themselves against one of the best teams in the FBS. Penn State might be their toughest opponent since the Big East football conference still existed.
The Nittany Lions are led by star senior quarterback and Heisman candidate Drew Allar. He currently has 417 passing yards and three passing touchdowns. Penn State has also been able to move the ball well on the ground, led by senior running back Kaytron Allen, who has 187 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
It’s no surprise that a franchise that once had a recent Super Bowl champion, Philadelphia’s Saquon Barkley, running the ball still has a successful ground game.
In both games so far, the Nittany Lions got out to an early lead and wore down their opponents on the ground to cruise through their victories.
The Wildcats must play off their strengths to stay competitive. Nicholls State graduate transfer Pat McQuaide has taken over at quarterback and had a strong showing in week one.
Villanova has been known for its strong run game, but McQuaide is looking to improve passing this season. It started with his 299 passing yards and one passing touchdown against Colgate. He also tacked on 41 rushing yards and a score on three carries, proving to be a dual-threat QB.
Sophomore running back
David Avit is coming off a fantastic 2024 season, in which he posted nearly 1,000 yards and nine rushing touchdowns. He was relatively quiet against Colgate with 49 rushing yards and was a holding call shy of a touchdown. But Avit and fellow sophomore running back Isaiah Ragland remain powerful weapons in the backfield.
The Wildcats are 3-4-1 all-time against the Nittany Lions, with the most recent matchup coming in 2021. Penn State downed Villanova, 38-17.
Penn State, which has College Football Playoff hopes, will be a true test for Villanova. The Wildcats will see where they stand with one of the best teams in all of college football.
McQuaide Delivers First Impression in Win Over Colgate
Katie Lewis Co-Sports Editor
In a solid Saturday night debut for new graduate quarterback Pat McQuaide, No. 12 Villanova emerged with a 24-17 victory over Colgate.
The Wildcats opened the season by extending a 17-game home win streak. McQuaide finished the night passing 18-for28 for a total of 299 yards and a touchdown. He also tacked on a career-high 41 rushing yards across the game.
Sophomore running back David Avit led the Wildcats on the ground with 49 rushing yards on the night. Graduate wide receiver Lucas Colella, a transfer from Princeton, also excelled, recording 124 receiving yards and five catches.
“We’re really happy and excited about being 1-0,” head coach Mark Ferrante said. “We’re really proud of [McQuaide and Colella] for how they played while not knowing a whole lot about each other, and happy about adding them to the roster.”
On the defensive end, junior linebacker JR Strauss led the way with eight tackles. Junior linebacker Turner Inge and senior linebacker Shane Hartzell recorded another six tackles each on the night.
“It all starts with Hartzell, our best guy and the leading tackler for the last two seasons,” Ferrante said. “He’s the one that
gets [the defense] going.”
McQuaide worked through the air during Villanova’s second drive as the Wildcats moved 73 yards across six plays, including a 51-yard heave to Colella.
Sophomore running back Isaiah Ragland then punched in the first touchdown of the night with a 1-yard carry as three minutes and 33 seconds remained in the first quarter.
McQuaide continued to put his multi-dimensional style on display early in the game. Across the first half, he completed 8-for11 passes for a total of 118 yards, while gaining 38 yards on the ground.
“It’s not a reflection of me,” McQuaide said. “The offensive line is incredible. I don’t think there was a sack. The stats go to
me, which they shouldn’t, because that was those guys that did the work.”
In the second quarter, McQuaide burst through Colgate’s defense for a 28-yard sprint up the middle to score a second Villanova touchdown.
Villanova’s defense kept Colgate silent throughout the first quarter. But the Raiders responded just about seven minutes before the halftime break, as senior wide receiver Treyvhon Saunders got his hands on a 32-yard pass and ran it in for a touchdown.
Colgate got on board a second time in the first half with a field goal as 33 seconds remained on the clock, with Villanova still ahead 14-10.
In the third quarter, Colella delivered another big play with
a 44-yard catch and run to the 40-yard line. Despite a relatively clean first half with just one whistle, a holding call stunted Villanova’s ensuing touchdown attempt. Avit’s 12-yard rush to the end zone was nullified by a 10-yard penalty. Graduate kicker Jack Barnum still put points on the board for the Wildcats with a 39-yard field goal. Colgate escalated tensions late in the third quarter with another touchdown, putting the scoreboard at 17-17.
But Villanova’s offense put together an energetic 73-yard drive across just four plays to retake the lead. Colella sparked the momentum with a 19-yard catch. Graduate wide receiver Lucas Kopecky ended the third quarter on a high note, grabbing a 56-yard pass at the 20-yard line and running it into the end zone.
“Colgate was really gearing up to stop the run, and that’s when Pat was able to hit them over the top on some of those plays,” Ferrante said. “[Kopecky’s touchdown] was a huge play, and because they were trying to stop the run so much, it opened up the ball down the field.”
It was ultimately the game-winner as both teams went scoreless in the fourth quarter.
The Wildcats now prepare for their annual Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) matchup next Saturday, Sep. 13, in Happy Valley. Villanova will take on national powerhouse No. 2 Penn State (2-0). Kickoff at Beaver Stadium is set for 3 p.m.
A contest against Penn State will be the ultimate test for new graduate quarterback Pat McQuaide. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
In his Villanova debut, graduate quarterback Pat McQuaide scored a 28-yard rushing touchdown. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
The Wildcats, ranked No. 11 in the FCS, are coming off an opening win last Saturday over Colgate. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Photos: Villanova Football vs. Colgate On Sept. 6
Graduate quarterback Pat McQuaide ran in a 28-yard touchdown. He rushed for a career-high 41 yards. All photos courtesy of Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Villanova students and fans showed out for the football home opener last Saturday.
Graduate wide receiver Lucas Kopecky scored the game-winning touchdown, catching a 56-yard pass.
Sophomore running back Isaiah Ragland celebrates punching in the first touchdown of the season.
Senior defensive back Christian Sapp knocks down the ball to pin down a punt at the one-yard line.
Villanova (1-0), ranked No. 11 in the FCS, started the season with a 24-17 victory over Colgate (0-2).
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