Villanova University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Villanova University has 10 executives leading key functions including information technology, financial management, academic leadership, and student organization governance.

Rooted in Augustinian values, Villanova University fosters ethical leadership and critical thinking through rigorous academic programs that prepare students for meaningful community engagement and professional success.

Leadership Roles at Villanova University

  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Neil Horgan
  • President - Justin Sebelin
  • President - Council of Presidents - Emily Ciccarone
  • President - Luke Ohr
  • President - Thomas Laquidara
  • President - Julia Melilli
  • Co President - Swopnil Panday
  • Villanova Club Running President - Emma Spagnola
  • Co-President - Samantha Brown
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Tej Patel
  • Neil Horgan - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Neil Horgan, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Villanova University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Overseeing budget allocation, endowment management, and capital planning, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources align with the university's core mission of academic excellence. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board of Trustees to maintain fiscal transparency and operational efficiency. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling expenditures, Neil Horgan directly impacts the university's capacity to invest in new facilities and research programs. Furthermore, the Chief Financial Officer monitors economic trends to mitigate institutional risk. Through rigorous financial oversight, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer supports the growth of the university while upholding the Augustinian values that define the institution's commitment to responsible stewardship.

    Justin Sebelin - President

    Justin Sebelin, the President at Villanova University, drives the overarching strategic vision and academic mission of the institution. Overseeing faculty development, student success initiatives, and community partnerships, the President ensures that the university maintains its reputation for rigorous academics and ethical leadership. This leadership role involves representing the university to external stakeholders and fostering an inclusive campus culture. By championing the integration of Augustinian values into the curriculum, Justin Sebelin directly impacts the intellectual and moral development of the student body. Furthermore, the President collaborates with other executive leaders to expand research opportunities and enhance the university's national standing. Through the promotion of critical thinking and community engagement, the President secures the long-term vitality of the institution while guiding the university toward future growth and continued academic distinction.

    Emily Ciccarone - President - Council of Presidents

    Emily Ciccarone, the President - Council of Presidents at Villanova University, coordinates the collaborative efforts of various student-led organizations to enhance campus life. Overseeing communication between student groups and university administration, the President - Council of Presidents ensures that student voices influence institutional policy and community engagement initiatives. This leadership role involves facilitating meetings, managing organizational budgets, and promoting cross-campus collaboration. By fostering an environment of inclusivity and active participation, Emily Ciccarone directly impacts the quality of the student experience. Furthermore, the President - Council of Presidents works to align student activities with the broader mission of the university. Through the effective management of student governance, the President - Council of Presidents supports a vibrant campus culture that reflects the values of the university while encouraging leadership development among the student population.

    Luke Ohr - President

    Luke Ohr, the President at Villanova University, focuses on the operational advancement of specific academic departments and research initiatives. Overseeing the implementation of specialized programs, the President ensures that departmental goals align with the university's broader commitment to academic rigor. This leadership role involves managing internal resources and fostering partnerships with industry leaders to provide students with practical experience. By driving innovation in curriculum design, Luke Ohr directly impacts the competitiveness of the university's graduates in the global market. Furthermore, the President coordinates with faculty to promote interdisciplinary research that addresses complex societal challenges. Through the strategic management of academic resources, the President supports the university's mission to combine intellectual inquiry with ethical practice, ensuring that every program contributes to the overall excellence and reputation of the institution.

    Thomas Laquidara - President

    Thomas Laquidara, the President at Villanova University, directs the expansion of community outreach and service-learning programs. Overseeing the integration of Augustinian values into local and regional service projects, the President ensures that students engage meaningfully with the surrounding community. This leadership role involves building relationships with non-profit organizations and managing volunteer initiatives that address social needs. By facilitating these connections, Thomas Laquidara directly impacts the university's ability to foster a culture of service and social responsibility. Furthermore, the President works to align these outreach efforts with academic coursework to provide a holistic educational experience. Through the promotion of community engagement, the President supports the university's mission to develop ethical leaders who are prepared to contribute positively to society, ensuring that the institution remains a pillar of support and progress.

    Julia Melilli - President

    Julia Melilli, the President at Villanova University, manages the development and execution of student-focused wellness and mental health initiatives. Overseeing the coordination of support services, the President ensures that the campus environment promotes both academic success and personal well-being. This leadership role involves collaborating with health professionals and student affairs staff to implement comprehensive wellness programs. By prioritizing the holistic health of the student body, Julia Melilli directly impacts the overall retention and satisfaction rates of the university. Furthermore, the President works to reduce barriers to support, ensuring that all students have access to necessary resources. Through the strategic oversight of student wellness, the President supports the university's mission to nurture the whole person, reinforcing the commitment to Augustinian values and the creation of a supportive, thriving academic community.

    Swopnil Panday - Co President

    Swopnil Panday, the Co President at Villanova University, shares responsibility for the strategic direction of student-led professional development organizations. Overseeing the planning of career-focused workshops and networking events, the Co President ensures that students gain the skills necessary for post-graduate success. This leadership role involves managing organizational logistics and fostering connections between students and alumni. By facilitating these professional opportunities, Swopnil Panday directly impacts the career readiness of the student body. Furthermore, the Co President collaborates with the other Co President to ensure consistent leadership and effective resource management. Through the promotion of professional growth, the Co President supports the university's mission to prepare students for impactful careers, ensuring that the institution remains a leader in producing graduates who are both academically prepared and professionally capable.

    Emma Spagnola - Villanova Club Running President

    Emma Spagnola, the Villanova Club Running President at Villanova University, directs the operations and competitive strategy of the club running program. Overseeing team training schedules, race logistics, and membership recruitment, the Villanova Club Running President ensures that the organization provides a high-quality athletic experience for all participants. This leadership role involves managing the club's budget and coordinating with university athletics to secure necessary facilities. By fostering a culture of discipline and teamwork, Emma Spagnola directly impacts the physical health and morale of the student athletes. Furthermore, the Villanova Club Running President represents the team in regional competitions, enhancing the university's presence in the collegiate running community. Through the effective management of the club, the Villanova Club Running President supports the university's commitment to student well-being and the development of well-rounded individuals.

    Samantha Brown - Co-President

    Samantha Brown, the Co-President at Villanova University, manages the operational and strategic initiatives of student-led academic societies. Overseeing the coordination of guest lectures, research symposiums, and peer-mentoring programs, the Co-President ensures that these societies provide valuable intellectual enrichment for the student body. This leadership role involves managing organizational partnerships and ensuring that all activities align with the university's academic standards. By facilitating these scholarly opportunities, Samantha Brown directly impacts the academic engagement and intellectual curiosity of the students. Furthermore, the Co-President works closely with the other Co-President to ensure the effective execution of long-term goals and the sustainable growth of the organization. Through the promotion of academic excellence, the Co-President supports the university's mission to foster a community of learners who are dedicated to critical thinking and the pursuit of knowledge.

    Tej Patel - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Tej Patel, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Villanova University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy across the campus. Overseeing enterprise systems, cybersecurity protocols, and academic computing resources, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures seamless integration of modern tools into the learning environment. This leadership role involves managing large-scale data initiatives that support research and administrative efficiency. By modernizing network capabilities, Tej Patel directly impacts the university's ability to maintain high-level academic standards. Furthermore, the Chief Information Officer collaborates with faculty to implement innovative instructional technologies. Through the alignment of technical assets with institutional goals, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer secures the digital future of the university while maintaining robust protection for sensitive academic and personal data.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Villanova University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Villanova University?
    Villanova University is led by Neil Horgan (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Justin Sebelin (President) and Emily Ciccarone (President - Council of Presidents).
    Who is part of Villanova University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Villanova University includes leaders such as Neil Horgan (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), Justin Sebelin (President), Emily Ciccarone (President - Council of Presidents) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Villanova University have?
    Villanova University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Villanova University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Villanova University includes roles such as Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, President, President - Council of Presidents, President, President.