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John G. Drosdick ’65, through a pivotal Leadership Gift commitment of $1 million, demonstrated how and why The Campaign is succeeding. By stepping up at this critical point in The Campaign as it prepares to enter the last year of the Quiet Phase, he has shown a keen appreciation of the importance of the timing of Leadership Gift commitments.

In announcing the commitment at this December’s annual Steinway Christmas celebration, Rev. Edmund J. Dobbin, O.S.A. ’58, University president, said, “Jack’s commitment at this point in The Campaign sends an important message that this is the moment when large gifts can have the greatest effect on the future of the University and the success of this campaign.”

Drosdick also noted the importance of the timing of the announcement. “I’ve chosen this moment in The Campaign to make a commitment because it presents a window of maximum impact for such gifts. I look forward to working closely with Fr. Dobbin and senior campus leaders to review the many compelling opportunities and to designating the commitment in an area that will make a significant contribution. The track record of accomplishments of the past 15 years and the strategic vision of the future that has shaped The Campaign provide me with the confidence to make this commitment.”

Drosdick, who is chairman, chief executive officer, and president of Sunoco, Inc., currently serves as chairman of the University Board of Trustees. He is also a member of the Steering Committee for The Campaign for Villanova, which has responsibility for overall leadership of The Campaign, and he serves on the Leadership Gifts Committee, working to secure commitments at the highest level in support of the University’s most pressing priorities. During the previous capital campaign, The Villanova Campaign, which ended in 1997, Drosdick donated funds to establish the John G. Drosdick University Scholarship, which has helped support several academically talented students in the College of Engineering who might not otherwise have been able to attend the University.

In recognition of his long and consistent record of leadership and support for the University, he has received two of the University’s most prestigious awards: the St. Thomas of Villanova Medal, which is presented each year to alumni for outstanding service to the University and the community, and the J. Stanley Morehouse Award, which is presented to alumni of the of the College of Engineering for leadership in their profession and dedication to the College.

In speaking of the importance of Drosdick’s commitment, Gerald S.J. Cassidy, Esq. ’63, chairman of The Campaign, said, “I believe that timing is a critical factor when it comes to making a Leadership Gift. The combination of an improved economy and the excitement of the last year of the Quiet Phase means that gifts made during this strategic window will have a significant multiplier effect.”

John M. Elizandro, vice president for Institutional Advancement, said, “Jack has once again shown that he is one of Villanova’s leaders in every sense of the word. His commitment at this time demonstrates the kind of vision and generosity that are so characteristic not only of him but of all the University’s dedicated alumni, parents, and friends. Generations of Villanovans will benefit from his leadership support.”