Villanova University and Cabrini University have reached a final agreement that will involve the transfer of ownership of the Cabrini campus to Villanova upon the conclusion of the 2023-24 academic year. Following an initial agreement announced in June 2023, both institutions have completed the due diligence process necessary to reach this final agreement. The transaction is subject to various regulatory approvals expected to be obtained over the next 12 months.

The Cabrini campus, founded by the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, will retain its name under Villanova's leadership, ensuring the preservation of its legacy and global mission. Cabrini University President Helen Drinan expressed the importance of honoring the work of the Sisters and continuing to promote "education of the heart" as St. Frances Xavier Cabrini described it. She assured that this agreement will allow Cabrini's legacy to live on and the work of educating both minds and hearts to continue beyond the closing of the university's doors.

The legacy of Mother Cabrini

Villanova University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue highlighted the shared faith, common values and corresponding missions that unite the two institutions. He stressed that this agreement represents an opportunity to honor the legacy of Mother Cabrini and Cabrini University, while promoting Villanova's commitment to Catholic higher education.

In addition to maintaining Cabrini's name for the campus, Villanova is committed to preserving Cabrini's legacy and global mission through several initiatives. One of these is the creation of an institute or center dedicated to immigration, reflecting the importance of this topic in Cabrini's work. It will also incorporate the work of Cabrini's Wolfington Center into Villanova's existing programs that focus on developing students as advocates for social change. In addition, a scholarship program called "Cabrini Scholars" will be established in collaboration with the existing program at Cabrini High School in New Orleans.

Villanova will not only focus on maintaining the Cabrini name and mission, but will also provide resources to commemorate, celebrate and document the history and artifacts associated with Mother Cabrini and the Cabrini campus.

To ensure adequate representation, at least one representative of the Missionary Sisters and other Cabrini appointees will serve on Villanova's Board of Trustees for up to two successive five-year terms.

In the coming years, Villanova plans to determine how best to incorporate and utilize the Cabrini campus for the benefit of its students, faculty, staff and alumni. This initiative represents an important step in the consolidation of both institutions and the promotion of quality higher education with a focus on Catholic values and service to the community.