Piotr Kowalczuk
Alma Mater of Leo XIV
The awards at the International Conference on Sustainable Development, organized by the university in Rome and Castel Gandolfo (October 12-15), will be presented personally by the Holy Father. Robert Francis Prevost, the current Pope, studied mathematics at Villanova University (earning a bachelor’s degree in 1977), and the university later awarded him an honorary doctorate in humanities in 2014.
Medal
As the university explained in a press release, “the medal aims to honor those whose work presents a holistic vision of sustainable development, combining environmental concern, social justice, care for vulnerable social groups, and responsible management of economic and natural resources.”
Laureates may represent any discipline of science or social engagement. “The Pope Leo XIV Medal for Sustainable Development reflects Villanova University’s deeply held belief: care for our common home and care for one another are inseparable,” said Villanova University President, Rev. Peter M. Donohue. “It is a recognition of leaders whose work promotes both environmental protection and the common good. We hope to inspire meaningful and lasting change in communities around the world.” Medals will be awarded biennially.
Conference on Sustainable Development
The deliberations will take place under the theme “Responding to the Cry of the Earth and the Poor.” Approximately 300 participants will attend – scientists, researchers, church representatives, foundations, and leaders from the public and private sectors. The name of the first laureate will be announced in September 2026. The conference is organized in cooperation with the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development and the Laudato si’ Higher Education Center, established by Pope Francis to promote integral ecological formation, education in sustainable development, and initiatives inspired by the encyclical Laudato si’.
