New Leadership

A noted scholar, dedicated educator and devoted champion of Villanova’s mission whose career in academia spans more than three decades, Wen Mao, PhD, began her tenure as the new Helen and William O’Toole Dean of the Villanova School of Business on Aug. 1 after a national search. 

“Dr. Mao is a collaborative strategic leader who champions innovative teaching and research, demonstrates an unwavering commitment to student success, and can engage our faculty, students, staff and alumni in envisioning the future of business education,” says Provost Patrick G. Maggitti, PhD. “She has a deep understanding of what distinguishes a VSB education.”

A longtime VSB faculty member, Dean Mao is a professor of Economics and past chair of the Economics Department. An expert in game theory, public finance, micro theory and industrial organization, Dean Mao has been published in leading academic journals.

Dean Mao has held numerous leadership roles at VSB—most recently as vice dean, overseeing all aspects of academic and administrative operations. She has focused on strengthening the undergraduate and graduate student experience, supporting faculty research activity, recruiting top teacher-scholars to VSB and expanding global learning opportunities for students.

“Villanova is a special place for me, and I look forward to working closely with our faculty, staff, students and alumni—all of whom share my deep commitment to our Augustinian Catholic values—to envision the next great chapter in VSB’s history,” says Dean Mao.

Ray Duffy ’14 MS, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CBP, has been appointed vice president for Human Resources and Affirmative Action Officer, providing strategic direction and oversight for all aspects of Villanova’s Human Resources function. Duffy joined Villanova in 2010, and was named Chief Human Resources Officer in 2019.  

An established leader and relationship-builder, he has spearheaded the expansion of Human Resources operations at Villanova to serve the University’s nearly 3,000 employees.

“Ray’s proven success in human resources and talent development is an asset to our leadership team,” says Roger Demareski ’91 COE, executive vice president of Administration and Operations. “His work in helping the University attract and retain the best and brightest talent is a key part of carrying out the University’s mission.”  

Throughout his tenure, Duffy has led initiatives to develop and augment recruitment and retention programs, including the establishment of a talent acquisition area and expansion of training and professional development opportunities for faculty and staff. He also directed initiatives to bolster the benefits and compensation program in addition to further solidifying Villanova’s commitment to work/life balance. Duffy also played a crucial role in helping the University successfully navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Villanova is defined by its exceptional community, and I am extremely proud of what we are able to accomplish together,” Duffy says. “I look forward to building upon our strong foundation to best serve the people who make Villanova such a special place.”