VILLANOVA, Pa. -- Villanova Athletics was among 15 institutions selected to participate in the NCAA Office of Inclusion's eighth annual Common Ground program, held March 3–5, 2026, at the NCAA national office in Indianapolis.

Representing Villanova were Leashia Lewis, Assistant AD for UNITAS - Community, Culture and Engagement; David Walsh, Campus Minister for Sports and Spirituality and Team Chaplain, Men's Soccer; Dr. Eloise Berry, Assistant Vice President and Director Student Life UNITAS: Office of Belonging and Inclusion; Sydney Lobosco, Director of Inclusive Community Learning and Practice for UNITAS: Office of Community Enrichment, and Jessica Smith, Intern for UNITAS and Office of Academic Services.

This year's event brought together nearly 70 student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and university staff from faith-based, private, and public institutions for three days of educational sessions, intentional dialogue, relationship building, reflection, and strategy development. Each institution participated as a team, allowing campus representatives to explore shared challenges and identify strategies and resources to support their communities.

Guided by a vision to create a model of collegiate athletics that is safe and welcoming for individuals of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and faith perspectives, Common Ground focuses on building environments where individuals with differing beliefs can engage respectfully. Rather than seeking to change individual values, Common Ground emphasizes dialogue rooted in empathy, understanding, and connection.

"This is a meaningful opportunity for our Villanova leaders to learn alongside the NCAA in a way that aligns deeply with our Augustinian mission and commitment to dialogue, Faith, and LGBTQAI+ communities and topics," Lewis said. "While building connection comes naturally, translating that into sustained impact requires intentionality, focus, and courage. I have great confidence in our Common Ground team—we are on a clear path to making a lasting difference within Villanova Athletics and beyond."

A central theme throughout the experience was the idea that differences themselves are not the threat—disconnection is. Participants were encouraged to practice compassion, extend empathy, and develop the skills necessary to engage in thoughtful and respectful dialogue.

Through guided discussions, reflection exercises, and collaborative planning, the Villanova team engaged deeply at the intersection of faith, identity, and inclusion, while also exploring how to translate these learnings into meaningful action within Athletics and across campus.

Key themes from the experience included:

·         Dialogue Skills: Practicing active listening, using "I" statements, remaining open to new perspectives, and holding complex or competing ideas constructively

·         Self and Systems Awareness: Understanding the influence of individual identity, group dynamics, institutional systems, and broader societal contexts

·         Power and Influence: Exploring how power—power over, power with, power to, and power within—shapes culture and decision-making

·         Recognizing Triggers and Reframing: Developing strategies to navigate emotional responses and maintain respectful engagement

As part of the team-based model, Villanova representatives reflected on campus readiness and relationships to support continued dialogue. This included identifying opportunities to:

·         Build trust across campus communities

·         Create spaces for meaningful engagement between faith and LGBTQIA+ co3mmunities

·         Engage stakeholders open to listening and dialogue

·         Ensure all students feel supported, valued and able to flourish

The Common Ground initiative, supported by the NCAA, is designed to equip institutions with the tools and strategies needed to navigate complex conversations while supporting student-athlete well-being and fostering inclusive campus environments.