CENTER FOR HUMANITARIAN ENGINEERING AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Established in 2020, Villanova’s Center for Humanitarian Engineering and International Development engages students in unique learning opportunities that reinforce engineering fundamentals, a commitment to life-long learning and service to society.

It positions the College and University among nationally recognized institutions that demonstrate excellence in education by creating innovative learning experiences with a global perspective.

With ethical engagement as its guiding principle, the Center will focus on three key program areas:

CURRICULUM

The Center delivers a rigorous curriculum in the context of global humanitarian issues through a new Humanitarian Engineering minor and an International Development track within the College’s Sustainable Engineering graduate program. Equipped with academic fundamentals and the engineering design process, students and faculty members will engage with global partners to address complex challenges that are rooted in ethical engagement.

RESEARCH

Research efforts are rooted in ethical engagement including appropriate coordination with international agencies and university compliance. The Center also provides new opportunities for multi-disciplinary collaborations and offers faculty the necessary support to successfully engage with international partners, funding agencies and field teams.

Current research initiatives:

Water and sanitation infrastructure
Humanitarian technologies
Renewable energy resources

OUTREACH

The Center is focused on building partnerships with in-country non-profit organizations involved in community development work—an effort that formally began in 2011 with the Villanova Engineering Service Learning (VESL) program. VESL currently provides opportunities for undergraduate and graduate engineering students to engage with program partners in 12 countries around the world. Engagement occurs at multiple levels across all departments and programs.

FEATURED FACULTY

JORDAN ERMILIO
CENTER DIRECTOR

GARRETT CLAYTON
HUMANITARIAN TECHNOLOGIES IN CAMBODIA

VIRGINIA SMITH
WATER RESOURCES ENGINEERING

PRITPAL SINGH
RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

IAIN HUNT
SUSTAINABLE INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

THE EXPERIENCE

Daniel Fetsko, Civil Engineering

“This was without a doubt one of the most impactful experiences that I ever had. It was incredible to see the concepts that we learn in class applied to a scenario where we were able to use what we know to help others in a way that most people never get to experience.” MORE...

Elizabeth Cullen, Chemical Engineering and Fulbright Student Grant recipient

“I found that engineering and service could both be a big part of my experience at Villanova. Getting really involved in VESL was what gave me a big ‘a-ha’ moment and a vision of how I can continue to blend those interests in my career... I’ve found what I am passionate about.” MORE...

Myah Massenburg, Chemical Engineering

“While language can be a barrier between people, hands-on activities and learning through interactions are meaningful and powerful. I learned so much without ever exchanging words. I learned that family is important whether that be a traditional family or friends one has traveled with. A close-knit community will allow any idea or project to succeed because there are many people working diligently together. I recommend this experience to anyone looking for a challenge outside the classroom where you can directly see how projects and ideas will impact people’s lives.” MORE...

Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering Jim O’Brien

“At Villanova we want students to graduate understanding that they have a moral responsibility to improve the world and the lives of the people in it. This is especially important for engineers. These trips and the work associated with them give students experience using engineering for the betterment of mankind, and in the process of serving, they generally find that they gain more than they give.” MORE...

Samantha Schafer, Chemical Engineering

“My time in Panama yielded some of my favorite memories. My service there made me not only a better student of engineering, but of life. I encourage every student to take advantage of at least one of the many service trips offered through our great University, reap the rewards, and do what we Villanovans do best: Ignite Change!” MORE...

Shannon Becker, president, Aqua North Carolina

“This experience helps provide the students insight into the real world, outside of a textbook. I wish I would have had an opportunity like this VESL project while in school... I think it’s a great opportunity to partner with a prestigious university that also has a practical application as part of their program where they can reach out to the community and get real-life experience. Our connection with Villanova has enabled us to use them as a resource, whether it’s hiring students down the road or working with them in the community, I’m thankful for the opportunity to contribute and proud to say that I’m a part of this program.”