At the heart of Villanova College are the enduring Augustinian values of humility, community, interiority, and the restless search for truth. These principles, deeply rooted in St. Augustine’s teachings, continue to guide our students in becoming academically proficient, spiritually grounded individuals. In a rapidly evolving world, how do we ensure these values remain relevant and inspire young men to lead with purpose?

Humility is a cornerstone of an Augustinian education, teaching students to recognise their strengths and weaknesses while fostering gratitude. At Villanova, humility is experienced through service-learning projects, sport, and music, where students engage in activities that challenge societal norms and encourage collaboration for the common good. Our mantra, “not to think less of ourselves, but to think of ourselves less,” empowers students to lead with self-awareness and empathy.

Interiority calls students to reflect on their actions and decisions, developing a strong moral compass. Inspired by St. Augustine’s words, “To become what we are not yet. Keep adding, keep walking, keep advancing,” students practice mindfulness and reflective journaling to cultivate self-awareness and purpose. By fostering introspection, we equip them with the skills to navigate life with clarity and conviction.

The restless search for truth fuels intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. At Villanova, inquiry-based learning challenges students to ask meaningful questions, seek answers, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. Our teaching methods encourage innovation while remaining grounded in tradition, ensuring students become lifelong learners unafraid to challenge conventional ideas.

Community is the keystone value, not just a by-product of other actions but an outcome in itself. St. Augustine’s reflection, “Honour God in each other,” reminds us that we are all made in God’s image. In an era where social commentators warn of increasing youth isolation, Villanova fosters deep connections through initiatives like Global Village and Educatio Augustiniana. These programs leverage technology to create virtual communities, enabling peer mentoring, collaborative projects, and global exchanges, reinforcing that community transcends geographical boundaries.

Balancing tradition with innovation is crucial to preparing Villanova students for leadership in society. By recontextualising Augustinian values in ways that resonate today, we help students grow in faith, realise their potential, and contribute meaningfully to the world. Through this approach, Villanova ensures that graduates are not only well-educated but also compassionate, reflective, and driven by a deep sense of purpose.

Paul Begg
Principal, Villanova College