ABOUT THE DEAN

Message From Dean Mao

"Our community is what makes the Villanova School of Business so special. Our faculty, staff, alumni, and partners bring a shared commitment to educating the whole person, offering the personal attention and opportunities that help each student learn, grow, and find their path. Through coursework, internships, faculty-student research collaboration, study abroad programs, and academic guidance and professional development, we prepare students to navigate a changing business landscape with confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of purpose. Rooted in our Augustinian Catholic tradition, we embrace a change mindset while staying true to the values and sense of community that define us.  Together, we put our commitment to truth, community, and service into practice, preparing students to make meaningful contributions in their professions and communities."

Profile

Wen Mao, PhD, is the Helen and William O’Toole Dean of the Villanova School of Business (VSB) and faculty member in the Economics Department. As dean, she leads the School’s academic strategy, operations, and external engagement. 

Dr. Mao is strongly committed to enhancing the student experience through a focus on community and educating the whole person, increasing research productivity and impact, and implementing the strategic mission of the School and University. For over 30 years at Villanova University, Dr. Mao has served in a variety of roles. In 1995, she began her career at VSB as an assistant professor of Economics. In 2007, she served as the chair of the VSB Economics Department and continued to advance in her career before being named the associate dean of faculty in 2017 and vice dean in 2022.