Maria Bello returns to Villanova today

Maria Bello graduated from Villanova University in 1989, planned to go to law school for human rights and ended up an actress – and an activist.

Bello will return to Villanova today to talk about her journey with students and the public in an event sponsored by the university's Center for Peace and Justice Education. Proceeds from the event will go to Bello's non-governmental organization, WE ADVANCE.

Bello cofounded the WE ADVANCE with Barbara Guillaume, Alison Thompson and Aleda Frishman in January 2010 to improve the public welfare of women in Haiti by way of a free clinic and community outreach programs.

Maria Bello will appear today at 4 p.m. at the Connelly Center Cinema. Tickets can be purchased at the event. $2 for students; $5 for non-students.