Villanova will hold its annual Regular Decision Candidates’ Day for accepted prospective students in the class of 2011 this Saturday. The 2,000 visitors are expected to reflect this year’s large and diverse applicant pool. The program will include faculty speakers and presentations, as well as student involvement, specifically from members of the Blue Key Society and Villanova Ambassadors.

While the bulk of the program will take place on Saturday, families that choose to arrive Friday night will be welcomed with dinner in Dougherty Hall with Villanova students. They also have the option of attending a faculty panel discussion titled “Philosophy of Education.”

The events on Saturday will begin at 9 a.m. with breakfast and entertainment from the Department of Music Activities. Dr. Terry Nance, assistant vice president of Multicultural Affairs, and University President Rev. Peter Donohue, O.S.A., will then address all candidates. Throughout the rest of the day, visitors will be able to learn about all aspects of the Villanova community, including academics and student life.

Each academic college will hold its own presentation and will also offer departmental open houses and lab tours. Several themed seminars, with topics such as campus ministry opportunities, financial services, study abroad and health professions, will also be held. Many University offices will be open to the candidates, and a multicultural reception is also planned.

In order to explore student and campus life, visitors will have the chance to speak with Villanova students, take a campus tour and see the events and opportunities the University has to offer.

“One of the highlights on Saturday is the activities forum from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m which takes place on Connelly Plaza, featuring over 40 clubs and organizations, plus the performance of various student dance and musical groups,” said Michael Gaynor, director of University Admission.

The day will conclude with a Mass for the candidates in the St. Thomas of Villanova Church.

Blue Key members and Villanova Ambassadors have been coordinating Candidates’ Day since January, bearing in mind the importance of demonstrating as many aspects of the University as possible in one day. Students from these two groups have volunteered for a variety of positions in order to allow a feeling of comfort and excitement to the event.

“Our goal for the weekend isn’t to get every accepted student to come to

Villanova, but to really show the families what Villanova is all about,” said Mark Reagan, Blue Key president for the ’07-’08 academic year. “We only really have a few hours to show them how much Villanova and the Villanova community means to us, but we just want each candidate to at least see what Villanova really is.”

University admissions officers also know the importance of Candidates’ Day and having dedicated students.

“The Office of University Admission is extremely grateful to the entire campus community for their efforts devoted to ensuring a successful Candidates’ Weekend, especially to the members of the Candidates’ Weekend Planning Committee,” Gaynor said.