Every November, Villanova University bursts to life, transforming the campus into a vibrant hub of joy, unity and energy. Since its founding in 1989, Fall Festival, otherwise known as Fall Fest, has become one of Villanova’s proudest celebrations, growing each year in both success and spirit.
More than 1000 athletes and nearly 4000 volunteers fill every corner of campus, creating an atmosphere of passion and excitement that is felt from the Oreo all the way to Jake Nevin. But beyond the cheers, medals and competitions lies the enduring message of inclusion that this weekend is meant to illuminate.
Among the many beloved Fall Fest traditions is the creation of housing letters. Long before the athletes even arrive on campus, Villanova student volunteers craft handwritten notes that are packed into athletes’ welcome bags to offer encouragement and support as they head into a weekend of hard work. These simple letters remind each participant that they are seen and celebrated for their strength and individual, unique qualities.
“When you’re writing 1100 letters and packing them into bags, it can be easy to think they are getting lost into this huge pile,” senior and Housing Committee Member Sarah Doherty said. “But it still goes to someone, and they carry that with them even if it’s not a face-to-face interaction.”
The emotional impact of this small but powerful act can be huge for an athlete.
“An athlete came up to my peer, asking if they knew who Sarah was,” Doherty said. “He had carried his letter with him to the competition which made me realize how the care we put into each note truly reaches the athletes.”
These letters are one of the first things the players receive when they arrive at their hotels, making it that much more motivating as they head into an intense weekend. The volunteers often follow similar guidelines when writing, including advice, friendly reminders to rest, stay hydrated and even facts about themselves to make it more personable. Still, each letter carries the unique creativity of its writer.
“I like to draw little doodles and fun designs at the bottom of each card to connect to this year’s theme of art,” junior and Volunteer Coordinator Ally McManus said.
These quick additions ensure that the athletes know time and care was put into the entire weekend, and that it will carry through to each competition and activity. For many student volunteers, the letters are more than just a kind gesture, but a reflection of their own traditions.
“When I was in high school, my parents would leave notes before a big exam or sports game,” senior and Volunteer Coordinator Meghan Stricker said. “Sometimes just hearing a ‘you got this’ makes all the difference.”
Though it may not seem like such a defining factor, these letters capture the true essence of Special Olympics. Over time, Villanova students who participate in Fall Fest have built meaningful and special connections that extend far beyond the weekend itself. The relationships between athletes, coaches, students, parents and general volunteers symbolizes Villanova’s core values of compassion and community.
“It was so cool to see my interests melding and to expand my horizons,” junior and Inclusion Crew Member Maeve Cantwell said. “It’s never too late, and there are so many levels of involvement that allow people to be a part of this amazing community.”
Even newcomers can feel the significance of this event and how important it is to all groups of participants. From the flash-mob dances and colorful banners that span across campus, to the quiet moments when athletes unfold their letters and take in those words just for them, Fall Fest radiates the best of Villanova’s values.
These letters serve as a reminder that every person belongs, every effort matters and any word of encouragement can spark lasting change.
