Michael Pagano, Professor of Finance in Villanova School of Business (VSB), named inaugural chair holder
Endowment provided by Robert and Mary Ellen Darretta to enhance study of finance at VSB through applied research and cross-disciplinary curricula
VILLANOVA, PA. — Villanova University announced the inauguration of the Robert J. and Mary Ellen Darretta Endowed Chair in Finance and the selection of Professor of Finance Michael Pagano, Ph.D., as the inaugural chair holder. This endowment, generously provided by Robert and Mary Ellen Darretta, was created to enhance the study of finance at VSB through applied research and cross-disciplinary curricula.
Pagano joined VSB in 1999 and quickly established a national reputation for his research in financial markets and financial institutions. In 2009 he was featured in The Wall Street Journal for his investigative look at the correlation between U.S. terror alert levels and activity within financial markets. Pagano was appointed to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s (FINRA) Market Regulation Committee in 1990, becoming the first financial academician to serve on the committee.
As the Robert J. and Mary Ellen Darretta Endowed Chair in Finance, Pagano will direct curricular and programmatic developments on emerging topics in finance to ensure VSB students are prepared for the rapidly changing and increasingly global business community. Furthermore, he will spearhead partnerships with international scholars and universities to enhance the quality of learning at VSB.
“Michael Pagano is a distinguished professor who has made significant contributions to financial research,” said Robert Darretta, ’68 VSB. “His insight and understanding of financial markets make him the perfect candidate to fulfill the Darretta family’s vision to position VSB as a leader in finance.”
Robert Darretta is the former vice chairman and chief financial officer of Johnson & Johnson. He retired from Johnson & Johnson in March 2007 after a thirty-eight-year career with the organization. The former chair of VSB’s Dean’s Advisory Council, Mr. Darretta currently serves on the President’s Leadership Circle for the University.
“It is a privilege to serve as the first endowed chair in finance,” said Pagano. “I am eager to collaborate with faculty, Dean James Danko, and the Darretta family to further elevate VSB’s status in the field of finance.”
