Villanova University has announced that its Charles Widger School of Law has been the recipient of $15 million from the John F. Scarpa Foundation. 

The money pledged to the school will be used to launch the next phase of entrepreneurship Initiatives and scholarships. The $15 million is the biggest gift made by the foundation and go toward educating its students to be the next generation of entrepreneurs. 

“The entrepreneurial spirit has driven the economic success of our nation, and Villanovans are known for their enterprising aptitude,” said university president, the Rev. Peter Donohue. “This transformational gift will encourage the next generation of Villanova entrepreneurs by expanding their opportunities in the Law School and across the entire university. I cannot think of a more fitting way to honor John than to name the Law School building in honor of his steadfast commitment to cultivating the entrepreneurship mindset in the study of law and other disciplines across our campus.”

Mark C. Alexander, The Arthur J. Kania Dean and professor of law, Charles Widger School of Law, said that the Scarpa Center is an innovative institution which is working hard to prepare its students to succeed, no matter the field or industry that they embark on. 

Michael J. O’Neill, senior vice president for university advancement, has also praised the foundation, explaining the impact that this gift will have. 

“This gift will leave an indelible mark on our students and faculty, empowering them to pursue entrepreneurial endeavors and scholarship that will positively influence our community and the world,” O’Neil said.

Scarpa was a communications and cable television entrepreneur and has been a generous donor to Villanova University for a number of years. His generosity has benfited educational and health care institutions as well.