Villanova University and Global Philadelphia Partner to Unveil New Mural as Part of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals

Villanova, Pa. (November 13, 2024)- Villanova University, in partnership with the Global Philadelphia Association, today unveiled a new mural dedicated to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Installed on an exterior wall of the Connelly Center, this striking artwork is one of 17 murals across the Philadelphia area designed to raise awareness of the UN SDGs. SDG 12 emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices, reducing waste and fostering a more responsible cycle of production and consumption. The mural aims to inspire ongoing public dialogue about environmental responsibility and sustainability.

Created by Maggie Hobson-Baker, MFA, a Villanova faculty member in the Department of Communication and Philadelphia-based artist, the mural portrays humans as active stewards of the environment, emphasizing the interconnectedness between people and the planet. It serves as a powerful visual reminder of the impact that sustainable practices can have, both on campus and beyond.

In addition, each SDG unveiling has included a grant given to a related community organization. The SDG 12 grant was awarded to Martha's Choice Marketplace & Community Farm, Montgomery County's largest food pantry. The grant will support the pantry's mission to distribute over two million pounds of food annually to more than 15,000 individuals, advancing the goal of sustainable consumption and addressing local food insecurity.

"As an Augustinian Catholic university, we believe that all creation is sacred, and Villanova is dedicated to fostering responsible stewardship of the environment and promoting the flourishing of all people," said the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, University President."Under the guidance of the Laudato Si' Action Platform, we are committed to advancing sustainable living in every aspect of campus life-from academics and research to social justice and well-being. This is why I am especially pleased to partner with Global Philadelphia on this mural, as it reflects our shared commitment to sustainability and leadership on a global scale."

The unveiling ceremony featured remarks from Father Donohue; Zabeth Teelucksingh, President of Global Philadelphia Association; the Rev. Kevin DePrinzio, OSA, PhD, Vice President for Mission and Ministry; and Hobson-Baker. Additional speakers included Villanova's Student Sustainability Committee secretary Sarah Petrus '25 COE; Delaware County Councilmember Elaine Paul Schaefer; Rob McNeill, Board Chair of the Global Philadelphia Association; and Eli Wenger from Martha's Choice Marketplace & Community Farm.

"We all recognize that sustainable communities, cities and initiatives are the foundation of healthy and thriving societies. I can think of no better place to amplify this message of sustainability than Villanova University," said Rob McNeill, Board Chair of the Global Philadelphia Association. "I applaud Villanova's efforts to utilize this beautiful piece of art as a tool for education, inspiration and the promotion of a more sustainable future for our planet."

The project was made possible through the support of several University academic and research centers committed to sustainability and social responsibility. Together, these partners highlight Villanova's collaborative approach to advancing the UN SDGs and fostering dialogue around responsible consumption: the Moran Center for Global Leadership (Villanova School of Business), Global Interdisciplinary Studies (College of Liberal Arts and Sciences), the Center for Global Health (M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing), the Center for Humanitarian Engineering and International Development (College of Engineering), the College of Professional Studies, the Center for the Common Good, and the Office for Sustainability.

About Global Philadelphia Association: The Global Philadelphia Association consists of more than 200 internationally involved organizations, businesses, and individuals in Greater Philadelphia. It was created to assist - and to encourage greater interaction among - the many organizations and people who are engaged in international activity in the Greater Philadelphia Region, to promote the development of an international consciousness within the area, and to enhance Philadelphia's global profileFor more information, visit the website: https://globalphiladelphia.org/ .

About Sustainability at Villanova University: In 2007, Villanova University President the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD signed the American College & University Presidents' Climate Commitment. In 2018, the Villanova Sustainability Leadership Council was established to develop a 10-year actionable and measurable plan to guide the University's comprehensive effort to support the planet and its people and to ensure prosperity for all. By committing the University to the Laudato Si Action Platform and developing a customized Laudato Si' Plan, Villanova University is taking decisive and unflinching action to build a better future. At the core of all sustainability activities, both large and small, is the University's vision to establish an ethos of sustainable living. As an Augustinian Catholic institution, Villanova is committed to generating and advocating sustainable action to help create a future that provides enough, for all, forever.

About Villanova University: Since 1842, Villanova University's Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition has been the cornerstone of an academic community in which students learn to think critically, act compassionately and succeed while serving others. There are more than 10,000 undergraduate, graduate and law students in the University's six colleges-the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Villanova School of Business, the College of Engineering, the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, the College of Professional Studies and the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law. Ranked among the nation's top universities, Villanova supports its students' intellectual growth and prepares them to become ethical leaders who create positive change everywhere life takes them. For more, visit www.villanova.edu