The Villanovan has learned that this year’s commencement speaker for the Class of 2024 will be Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez.
University President Rev. Peter M. Donahue, O.S.A., Ph.D. revealed this during an exclusive interview with The Villanovan on Thursday, April 25. Honoring tradition, The Villanovan is privileged to be the first to break this news to the community.
Archbishop Pérez will notably be the first Hispanic commencement speaker to address a Villanova graduating class. He is known for his remarkable acts of service, honoring the Villanova value of caritas. A Philadelphia native, this year’s speaker has worked in the area for over a total of two decades. Additionally, Archbishop Pérez was appointed by Pope Francis to be the papal representative for Catholic Relief Services.
According to Fr. Peter, Archbishop Pérez is well acquainted with the Villanova community, and loves young people.
“He is a very wonderful man, very down to earth, and he loves Villanova,” Fr. Peter said. “He’s been here a couple of times, and I felt that he certainly has a sense of our mission.”
This year’s speaker is also widely recognized for engaging in Hispanic ministry. Archbishop Pérez has held the position of the Chair of the Bishop’s Standing Committee on Cultural Diversity, as well as several other positions within the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Archbishop Pérez’s strong ties to the Hispanic community played an important role in selecting him as this year’s speaker.
“We’ve never had anybody from a Hispanic background speak at graduation,” Fr. Peter said. “I thought that was important with the whole immigration issue going on.”
Fr. Peter acknowledged Archbishop Pérez’s enthusiasm. Archbishop Pérez readily accepted the invitation “within a minute” of being asked. While other speakers typically require a months-long process of securing their attendance, Archbishop Pérez’s excitement to speak is notable.
Archbishop Pérez will address the Class of 2024 on Friday, May 17 at 2:30 p.m. in Villanova Stadium.
