Campaign Goal Raised to $45 Million

Last night, St. Joseph’s Prep President John Marinacci announced that the For Others Forever Campaign has reached its $35 million goal, more than doubling the school’s endowment while funding the transformation of Villiger Hall. This is a momentous occasion for the Prep, as For Others Forever represents the largest fundraising campaign in school history. This success was made possible thanks to the generosity of our loyal alumni, parents, and friends contributing in record numbers. It will ensure the future of the Prep and our outstanding Jesuit education at 17th & Girard.

In addition to the physical transformation of Villiger Hall, the For Others Forever Campaign also adds $20 million to the school’s endowment, helping financially strengthen the Prep. Gifts raised in support of the endowment ensure that the Prep will be able to stay true to its mission of educating qualified young men from all socioeconomic backgrounds, providing much-needed scholarships and financial aid. Over 45 new endowed scholarships have been created as well as funds to support the Prep’s crew and football programs and Mission and Ministry Initiatives.

“The success of this campaign is indicative of the love that St. Joseph’s Prep alumni, parents, and friends have for our school and the belief they have in our Jesuit mission,” says Marinacci. “We are extremely grateful for their support and trust, and the entire community understands the responsibility of continuing this legacy.”

Marinacci announced that because of the great success thus far, the Prep will raise the goal to $45 million to “continue to expand access and improve the educational facilities for our students. We have witnessed the unwavering support of our alumni, parents, and friends to continue meeting the needs of our community.” With this $10 million increase, the Prep plans to continue to increase its endowment and to update the first and second floors of Villiger Hall. The project will provide state-of-the-art technology, updated instructional equipment, and improvements to the general learning environment to maximize the educational experience for students and faculty. 

“Our students, faculty, and staff need facilities that match the incredible work being done by them inside of these walls,” Marinacci says. “The next phase of the For Others Forever Campaign will complete the physical transformation of the interior of Villiger Hall to help achieve that.”

Phase One, which will begin construction on Monday, April 4, will create the Howley Learning Commons, the Connelly Counseling Center, and the J. Anthony Hayden '62 Hall of Excellence, as well as completely renovate the Cape and Sword Theatre. Phase Two will reimagine 21 classrooms and all additional office areas on the first and second floors to complete the work begun with the Maguire Science Wing in 2010.

“The For Others Forever Campaign directly impacts the education of our young men,” Marinacci says.  “It is vital for the Prep to continue its mission of forming people of competence, conscience, and compassion for decades to come.”

Marinacci went on to acknowledge the entire Prep community for their incredible generosity during the For Others Forever Campaign. “While tonight we are celebrating a huge milestone for the Prep as we begin this project, I’d like to thank all alumni, parents, and friends who continue to support the community through The Prep Fund, EITC, and direct contributions to student programs and activities through their annual support. Your generosity impacts our students.”
For an album from the Groundbreaking event, click here