The Vatican has announced the election of Pope Leo XIV, marking a historical moment as he becomes the first pope from the United States and the first to hold a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. university. Born Robert Prevost in Chicago, he graduated from Villanova University in 1977 and served across various roles in Peru before becoming a bishop. His leadership style is characterized by humility and warmth, reflecting the values of his Order. Pope Leo XIV is also a dual citizen of the U.S. and Peru and is the first Augustinian friar to be elected pope.
"I cannot help but reflect on what his Augustinian papacy will mean to our university community and our world," Donohue said. "Known for his humility, gentle spirit, prudence and warmth, Pope Leo XIV's leadership offers an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to our educational mission."
For most of his career, Prevost served in Peru, holding roles as a parish pastor, diocesan official, seminar teacher and administrator before becoming bishop of Chiclayo in 2015.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost, is a Chicago native who graduated from Villanova University in Philadelphia in 1977 with a bachelor of science in mathematics.
In addition to being the first pope from the U.S., Leo is also the first dual-citizen pope, holding citizenship in Peru.
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