Villanova University has announced the appointment of Rev. David Cregan, OSA, PhD, as the new dean of its College of Professional Studies (CPS). This transition will take effect on August 1, marking a significant moment for the institution as it continues to advance its educational mission.
Father Cregan, an alumnus of Villanova and a dedicated member of its faculty since 2004, brings extensive academic leadership experience to his new role. He previously served as the associate dean of Academic Affairs and Strategic Initiatives for CPS, where he played a pivotal role in curriculum development, faculty affairs, and the execution of strategic academic initiatives. Notably, he led the design and implementation of the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree and has been instrumental in faculty hiring and evaluation processes.
Commitment to Education and Community Engagement
The president of Villanova, Rev. Peter M. Donohue, praised Father Cregan as an “experienced and knowledgeable leader” who is deeply committed to the transformative power of education. In reflecting on his new position, Father Cregan expressed his admiration for the university community, stating, “Since arriving in the College of Professional Studies, I have been inspired, invigorated, and continually uplifted by our dedicated students, staff, and faculty. Here, student-centered learning is an imperative, and our faculty and staff are creatively flexible, adaptive, and innovative in guiding our students toward their academic, professional, and personal goals.”
Father Cregan’s diverse teaching portfolio includes courses in Global and Interdisciplinary Studies, Gender and Women’s Studies, and the Augustine and Culture Seminar Program. His commitment to education extends beyond traditional classrooms; he also teaches at Villanova’s program at SCI Phoenix, a state correctional institution. His scholarly work is distinguished by a focus on Irish theatre and performance, with numerous articles and book chapters contributing to the field. Before his academic career, Father Cregan had a professional acting background that included performances in New York and touring productions throughout the U.S. and Europe.
Future Directions for the College
The university’s Provost Patrick G. Maggitti highlighted Father Cregan’s understanding of the unique needs of adult learners, noting his comprehensive knowledge of CPS. Maggitti referred to Father Cregan as “uniquely suited” to lead the college into its next chapter. As dean, Father Cregan will oversee a range of responsibilities including strategic and academic planning, faculty engagement, student experience, financial operations, and alumni relations.
Father Cregan holds an impressive academic background, including a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Villanova, a Master of Divinity from Washington Theological Union, a Master of Arts in Irish Studies from The Catholic University of America, and both an MPhil and PhD in Dramatic Literature from Trinity College, Dublin. His diverse qualifications position him well to guide the College of Professional Studies in fostering a rigorous and supportive educational environment.
As Villanova University embarks on this new chapter under Father Cregan’s leadership, the community looks forward to a continued commitment to academic excellence and personal growth across its diverse student body.
