Merrimack College is one of 2 Augustinian institutions of higher learning in the U.S.; in the news in 2025, this is the other

The clue from the December 15, 2025, episode of Jeopardy called attention to a small but notable group of Catholic institutions rooted in the teachings of St. Augustine.

What is Villanova University?

Merrimack College in Massachusetts and Villanova University in Pennsylvania are the only two Augustinian institutions of higher education in the United States. Both are affiliated with the Order of St. Augustine, known for emphasizing community, truth, and the integration of faith and reason in education.

While Merrimack is a private college located in North Andover, Massachusetts, Villanova is a nationally recognized university situated just outside of Philadelphia. Founded in 1842, Villanova has grown into a prominent institution with a broad range of academic offerings, from liberal arts and engineering to business and law. It remains closely tied to its Augustinian identity, which is woven into its academic programs and campus life.

Why Villanova Was in the News in 2025

Villanova University gained national attention in 2025 due to its role in a major development in Catholic higher education. In March, the school announced plans to merge with Rosemont College, another Catholic institution located in suburban Philadelphia. Rosemont, although not an Augustinian institution, has long operated within the same regional and religious ecosystem as Villanova.

The merger is set to be completed by 2027 and was described as a strategic alignment to strengthen academic offerings, stabilize finances, and expand opportunities for students. As smaller colleges across the country face enrollment and financial pressures, such mergers are becoming more common. In this case, Villanova’s strong academic and financial standing made it a logical partner to absorb Rosemont’s programs and student body.

The Role of Faith-Based Institutions

Augustinian colleges like Villanova and Merrimack play a distinct role in the American higher education landscape. Their mission combines rigorous academics with ethical leadership, service, and spiritual development. The emphasis on community and moral responsibility sets them apart in a crowded educational environment.

With its Augustinian heritage, Villanova continues to influence Catholic higher education through scholarship, service, and outreach. The merger with Rosemont is seen by many observers as a way to preserve Catholic values in higher education while adapting to the changing needs of students and institutions alike.

Broader Trends in College Mergers

The announcement involving Villanova and Rosemont is part of a broader trend where smaller, financially vulnerable colleges are seeking partnerships with larger institutions. In recent years, demographic shifts and rising operational costs have forced many colleges to reassess their viability. Mergers, once rare, are increasingly viewed as a practical solution for sustaining academic missions.

Villanova’s willingness to integrate another campus under its umbrella demonstrates how larger, well-established universities can act as anchors in their regions, preserving educational access and maintaining religious and academic traditions. The move may also influence how other faith-based institutions plan for long-term sustainability.

Conclusion

The Jeopardy clue for December 15, 2025, highlighted a significant moment for one of the country’s leading Augustinian universities. Villanova’s upcoming merger with Rosemont College is more than just administrative news—it reflects larger changes within the higher education sector. As institutions evolve to meet modern challenges, those with strong foundations, such as Villanova, are positioned to lead and shape the future of Catholic and values-based education in the United States.