Did you know that the Cardinal John P. Foley Campus Center was once a chapel? Now it is a gathering place. It has sofas and flat screens.
St. Joseph’s University honors Cardinal John Patrick Foley. He was an alumnus and former Vatican spokesman. The university renamed its campus center for him after he died in December.
The Cardinal John P. Foley Campus Center has vaulted ceilings. It also has high windows. It is a hub for student meetings. Performances occur here. Guest speakers visit. Presentations are given to visiting high school students and parents.
Harriet Goodheart said he was a revered member of the university community. She is the assistant vice president for university communications. This went back to his days at St. Joseph’s College.
Foley graduated summa cum laude in 1957. He earned a bachelor’s degree in history and political science. He received the Shield of Loyola award. This award is given yearly to an alumnus. The alumnus has achieved success in his or her field. Foley died of leukemia after serving in Rome. He served under Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI.
Mike Morris is a 1956 alumnus. His gift made the renaming possible. The money went toward a sign at the center. Morris was a junior when Foley was a senior. Foley was president of the student council.
Morris said Foley’s social skills were excellent. He said you’d think Foley was always running for office. Morris also stated that they were not trying to focus on him as a bishop, archbishop, or cardinal. They wanted to remember him as a student.
The Cardinal John P. Foley Campus Center is located at 5600 City Ave in Philadelphia. It is a versatile event venue. It offers a range of spaces for gatherings and functions. The center provides a welcoming environment. It has modern amenities and flexible layouts.
A formal dedication ceremony was scheduled for April 16. Remember Cardinal Foley as you explore this vibrant space. It is a testament to his legacy as a student and leader. The Cardinal John P. Foley Campus Center stands as a lasting tribute.