Villanova University has been sponsored by the Order of St. Augustine since its founding in 1842. Members of the Order serve in many areas of the University including teaching in academic departments, ministering and counseling in Mission and Ministry, as well as serving in a number of administrative positions. Augustinians are also represented in the governance of the University, as President and through membership on the Board. Since its beginning, Villanova has been privileged to mediate St. Augustine’s vision of education as a community activity of scholars searching for truth in open discussion, commitment to ethical values, and dedication to social justice and human rights.
Villanova seeks to play an important role in allowing the voice of Augustine of Hippo (354- 430 AD) to continue to speak effectively to today’s world. With this in mind, Villanova established The Augustinian Institute to solidify efforts already undertaken and initiate new projects that flow from this rich Augustinian legacy.
This Institute serves the university as an agent and resource to support its efforts to give Augustine’s thought a vibrant and integral place within Villanova’s academic and community life. Beyond the university it reaches out to the wider culture through conferences, publications, fellowships, and other initiatives. The Institute is located in 451 St. Augustine Center.