Raymond and Elizabeth Hanley

God blessed us with five beautiful children, all of whom chose to attend Villanova. Each chose Villanova for different reasons, and we’ve been happy with each of their experiences. In addition to world-class academics and activities, we have witnessed the important role the Villanova experience plays in the formation of good character and strong moral values.

Strong values and principals are at the core of the Villanova’s simple, powerful motto: Veritas, Unitas, Caritas, or truth, unity and love. Wikipedia lists more than 200 mottos for U.S. colleges and universities. Many of these include references to “truth,” some to “unity,” but very few to “love.” At Villanova, we found that the difference is love.

A motto can be hollow words if it doesn’t reflect the character and essence of the institution. We’ve had many opportunities to witness Villanova as an institution that truly lives by its stated guiding principles. The core Augustinian values embedded in Villanova’s founding more than 170 years ago are very much present today—and they are evident at all levels of the organization. The University is blessed to have alumnus Fr. Peter Donohue as its Presidents, and its administration, faculty, staff and students share the values that make Villanova a welcoming place for students of different faiths and backgrounds—a place where strong, lifelong friendships are formed.

Villanova offers excellent educational opportunities and preparation for career success, and there is a vital difference in how these services are provided. We have seen firsthand that the professors are accessible to the students and truly care about them. The administrators and staff are anxious to help students. And the students themselves appreciate the difference in values that makes this such a special place.

The Villanova culture values academic achievement and, importantly, community service. While many universities have strong academic cultures, far fewer combine academics and service as successfully as Villanova does. This combination promotes formation of the whole person as service opportunities connect the student to the broader community and promote values and achievements that transcend career success.

Through these and other opportunities, Villanova produces graduates who are not only strong academically but have also experienced the profound, even life-changing experience of offering their time and talent solely for the benefit of others.

As we have come in contact with staff and students over the years, we have noted a profound Villanova difference. Veritas, Unitas, Caritas—the difference is Love. And this difference led us to support Villanova in a special way through our planned gift.