Villanova University has appointed the Rev. David Cregan, OSA, PhD, as the new dean of its College of Professional Studies (CPS), effective August 1, 2023. Father Cregan, a distinguished alumnus of Villanova and a dedicated faculty member, is expected to leverage his extensive academic leadership experience and commitment to the university’s Augustinian Catholic mission in his new role.
Currently, Father Cregan serves as the associate dean of Academic Affairs and Strategic Initiatives for CPS. In this capacity, he oversees various critical areas, including curriculum development, faculty affairs, and strategic academic initiatives. Notably, he played a key role in designing and implementing the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree, as well as guiding faculty hiring and evaluation processes. He is also an active member of Villanova’s university-wide A.I. Task Force.
Acknowledgment from University Leadership
Villanova President 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 enthusiasm, 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.”
With a tenure at Villanova that began in 2004, Father Cregan has previously chaired the Department of Theatre and Studio Art and served as the artistic director of Villanova Theatre. His teaching portfolio spans various programs, including Global and Interdisciplinary Studies, Gender and Women’s Studies, and the Augustine and Culture Seminar Program. Additionally, he teaches for Villanova’s program at SCI Phoenix, a state correctional institution.
Academic Background and Future Goals
Father Cregan’s scholarly work focuses on Irish theatre and performance, and he has published numerous articles and book chapters on these subjects. Before returning to Villanova, he enjoyed a professional acting career that included performances in New York and touring productions across the United States and Europe.
University Provost Patrick G. Maggitti commended Father Cregan for his understanding of the unique needs of adult learners and his deep knowledge of the College of Professional Studies. He described him as “uniquely suited” to lead the college into its next chapter. In his role as dean, Father Cregan will act as the chief administrator for CPS, overseeing strategic and academic planning, faculty engagement, student experience, financial operations, and alumni relations.
Father Cregan holds a BA in Theatre from Villanova, a Master of Divinity from Washington Theological Union, an MA in Irish Studies from The Catholic University of America, and an MPhil and PhD in Dramatic Literature from Trinity College, Dublin.
As Villanova University moves forward under Father Cregan’s leadership, the College of Professional Studies is poised for innovative developments that will enhance the educational experiences of its students.
