First Endowed Chair in the Sciences in the History of Villanova University

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is proud to announce the Gerald M. Lemole, M.D., Endowed Chair in Integrative Biology, which is the first endowed chair to be awarded in the sciences in the history of the University.

The establishment of a the Gerald M. Lemole, M.D., Endowed Chair in Integrative Biology will honor the life and legacy of Gerald M. Lemole M.D. ’58 by supporting the career of a talented biology professor, advancing the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and enhancing the education of Villanova biology students.

In addition to providing critical resources to enhance science education at Villanova, the Endowed Chair also will serve as a lasting tribute to the special relationship shared by Villanova and Dr. Lemole.

A 1958 graduate of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Dr. Lemole became a pioneer in the field of cardiac thoracic medicine. A highly esteemed surgeon and author, he has taught and practiced medicine around the world. He also has established himself as a generous philanthropist who has lent his support to numerous Christian and educational causes. At Villanova, Dr. Lemole’s friendship and support has included the endowment of the Rev. Angus N. Carney Endowed University Scholarship, which has benefited several students since its establishment in 1999.

The nationally recognized teacher-scholar-researcher selected as the Gerald M. Lemole, M.D., Endowed Chair in Integrative Biology will contribute to the Augustinian legacy of Villanova by following an ethical and socially responsible program that includes teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels and carrying out a productive research program commensurate with the national and international stature of the incumbent.

In addition, the Endowed Chair will mentor talented undergraduate and graduate students in independent research and will be actively involved in service to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and University, as well as to the scientific profession. The Chair holder will collaborate with other faculty members to help them develop cross-disciplinary curriculums and will foster relationships with regional, national, and international scientific educators and researchers to bring a global perspective to the major scientific issues affecting our world today.

The Gerald M. Lemole, M.D. Endowed Chair in Integrative Biology will:

• Engage in research focusing on topics such as the physiology of cells, tissues, organs, and organisms that has real-world relevance to areas that may include, health care, cardio-thoracic care, alternative medicine, and nutrition.
• Participate in scholarly conferences and seminars related to the study, teaching, and promotion of Integrative biology, with an emphasis on the education and training of undergraduate students that includes hands-on independent study and research.
• Assist in the development of courses and programs for undergraduate and graduate students that focus on the physiology of cells, tissues, organs, and organisms as well as in seminar courses that addresses social, legal, and ethical considerations at the interface of science and society. 
• Participate in the development of long-term plans and of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and of the University as they relate to ongoing efforts to ensure excellence in undergraduate education in the sciences within the context of a liberal arts education.
• Work with faculty colleagues within the University to seek external funding for new and creative initiatives in both education and scientific research that foster the personal and professional development of Villanova undergraduate science students.
• Enhance the national reputation of the University and College through contributions to instruction, research, and community service that promote the personal development of undergraduate students in the sciences in a way that fosters critical thinking and problem solving, within a context of a liberal arts education, so that students are destined to become future leaders that contribute to the overall betterment of society at large.

For more information, please contact Kate Szumanski.