Villanova University received a $2.5 million donation from James O’Donnell, the former American Eagle Outfitters CEO, to relocate its professional development center, writes Ryan Mulligan for the Philadelphia Business Journal.
O’Donnell graduated from Villanova in 1963 and served as American Eagle’s CEO from 2003 to 2012. He has made a continued effort to give back to his alma mater. He was a member of the board of trustees for the university and made a $5 million donation in 2014.
The Charlotte and James V. O’Donnell Center for Professional Development was initially built in 2015. With this donation, the center was relocated and expanded to accommodate more staff to support students pursuing a business degree.
The center, previously located in the Clay Center, hosts annual career events and coordinates the university’s co-ops and internships. It also houses around 30 business societies and facilitates the alumni mentorship program.
Brenda Stover, the assistant dean of the O’Donnell Center, said the center will also hire four new staff members.
“This new space really honors the incredible commitment that the O’Donnells have made to [Villanova School of Business] and to professional development,” Stover said.
Find out more information about James O’Donnell and the center in the Philadelphia Business Journal.
_______
