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About the Office

Father Peter Tolentine

The Role of the President

The President is elected by and responsible to the Board of Trustees of Villanova University. He serves as the executive head of the University and is responsible for the general direction of its affairs.

The President is guided by the Mission Statement of the University and the By-Laws of the Board of Trustees. He makes appointments to the academic and nonacademic staffs of the University with the exception of those offices appointed by the Board of Trustees. He presides at all academic functions at which he is present and represents the University before the public. The President has the power to sign all contracts, deeds and other legal instruments made in the ordinary course of the business of the University.

The Office of the President

The Office of the President at Villanova University exists to support the President and his initiatives while also serving as a resource for the entire University community.

Office staff manage the President’s calendar, coordinate his participation in on- and off-campus activities, and assist with speeches, messages and other communications from the President. The Office also provides staff support to the Board of Trustees and directs University-wide events such as the St. Thomas of Villanova Celebration, the Mendel Medal and Commencement.