On January 22, Professor Andreas Widmer, Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship and Director of the Art & Carlyse Ciocca Center for Principled Entrepreneurship, received the prestigious Pontifical Equestrian Order of Pope Saint Sylvester, commonly known as the "Knight of Saint Sylvester." This honor, conferred by the Pope on laymen distinguished for their service to the Church and Catholic institutions, recognizes Widmer's continuous dedication, including his past service as a member of the Swiss Guard under Pope St. John Paul II.
Acknowledged for his ongoing contributions, Widmer expressed gratitude to Pope Francis and Col. Christoph Graf, the Commander of the Swiss Guard. Those inducted into the Order of St. Sylvester are actively involved in Church activities, signifying recognition from the Holy Father for exemplary service. Established in 1841, the Order holds a special focus on rewarding laity active in the apostolate and professional duties. Dean Andrew Abela expresses pride in the recognition, emphasizing the university's commitment to serving the universal Church. The Order of Saint Sylvester is an honorary distinction, one of five orders of knighthood directly awarded by the Pope, acknowledging outstanding service to the Catholic Church and Vatican City.
Widmer shares, "I am deeply humbled and grateful to receive this honor from the Holy Father and am acutely aware that there are countless others who are equally if not more, deserving of such recognition. But it is not lost on me that the work I was privileged to do as a member of the Swiss Guard and the work I am currently engaged in as a professor at the Pontifical University of the United States is profoundly interconnected. Both roles are rooted in the same fundamental mission: to safeguard and propagate the teachings of the Gospel. My love for Christ and His Church has been the driving force behind my efforts in both endeavors."
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