Villanova School of Business alumnus James V. O’Donnell and his wife Charlotte have given Villanova University a $5 million commitment as part of the university’s $600 million Comprehensive Capital Campaign, “For the Greater Great: The Villanova Campaign to Ignite Change.” O’Donnell was the CEO of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. and the current owner of JOD Wayne Advisors, LLC.
Their financial commitment has been designated for the Villanova School of Business and the gift will establish the Charlotte and James V. O’Donnell ’63 Center for Professional Development in VSB.
“The education and support I received at the Villanova School of Business had a significant impact on my career,” said Jim O’Donnell. “One of the Center’s primary goals is to facilitate students’ successful transition from back pack to brief case. The professional development opportunities students receive as part of the Center will help them to realize their career aspirations.”
Villanova launched the public phase of its Campaign in Oct. 2013, and to date has raised $320 million towards its $600 million goal. This campaign is the most ambitious in the University’s 170-year history. It is aimed at cultivating academic innovation across its schools and colleges, investing in recruiting and retaining the finest teacher-scholars, dramatically enhancing financial aid and student opportunities and continuing to build a premier living-learning environment.
“This gift reflects the strong leadership commitment to the success of Villanova’s Campaign,” said the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, Villanova University President. “As a member of our Board of Trustees and a loyal alumnus, Jim O’Donnell has always been a fervent supporter of the University. Jim’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and the success of our students will impact Villanova well into the future.”