Nursing dean Antonia Villarruel’s appointment extended
Villarruel’s appointment as the dean of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing will be extended for an additional two years, through June 30, 2028.
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Dean of Penn’s School of Nursing Antonia Villarruel.
Antonia Villarruel’s service as the Margaret Bond Simon Dean of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing has been extended to June 30, 2028, subject to approval by the Board of Trustees.
The reappointment follows a comprehensive review of the major accomplishments of Villarruel’s term as dean, along with an assessment of emerging priorities and strategic opportunities for the School of Nursing, especially in support of the objectives articulated in the University’s strategic framework, In Principle and Practice.
“Dean Villarruel is widely recognized as an effective and inclusive leader who has guided the School of Nursing with clarity of vision, resilience, and a deep commitment to academic excellence,” says Jameson. “Under her tenure, the School has made notable strides in research, education, and community impact while continuing to grow financial support for faculty and students. Her leadership is exemplified by major progress towards achieving the School of Nursing’s strategic goals.”
Notable achievements of Villarruel’s tenure across a wide range of areas, include:
Global reputation: For nine consecutive years, Penn Nursing has been ranked the #1 nursing school in the world by the QS World University Rankings. This consistent recognition affirms Penn Nursing’s global leadership and excellence in nursing education and research.
Leadership in research and innovation: Penn Nursing was ranked #1 in NIH funding in FY25, and its research awards have more than doubled over the past decade. Penn Nursing is viewed as a research powerhouse, and faculty continue to lead major initiatives across many priority domains for the School and University.
Transformational community impact: The Leonard A. Lauder Community Care Nurse Practitioner Program exemplifies Penn Nursing’s commitment to health equity and community engagement. Now in its third cohort, the program trains nurse practitioners to serve underserved rural and urban communities and is building a robust alumni network to sustain its mission.
“Dean Villarruel’s many accomplishments underscore the positive effects of her accessible and decisive leadership style,” says Jackson. “She is leading Penn—and the School of Nursing—forward with her great successes across fundraising and research initiatives, community engagement, and faculty and student support.”
At its next meeting, the Board of Trustees will receive a resolution to extend the term of Villarruel for an additional two years.
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