Dr. Theresa Ladrigan-Whelpley

Education

• B.S. in biology with honors, Villanova University
• M.Div., Candler School of Theology, Emory University
• Ph.D. in Christian spirituality, Graduate Theological Union

Personal Statement

As vice president for mission, planning and innovation, I serve as a mission catalyst and bridge-builder, partnering with students, faculty, staff, administrators, community partners, trustees and alumni to strategically and collaboratively advance Salve's mission in the classroom, campus and community: "To work for a world that is harmonious, just and merciful."

I founded the McAuley Institute for Mercy Education at Salve, which seeks to advance the mission of the University through the development of interdisciplinary research and teaching initiatives to foster an ethic of dialogue and action around the tradition and critical concerns of mercy. I also oversee the work of the Center for Community Engagement and Service and the Center for Spiritual Life, and hold a faculty appointment in the Department of Religious and Theological Studies.

Before coming to Salve in 2018, I served for 12 years at Santa Clara University, primarily as the director of the Bannan Institute in the Ignatian Center for Jesuit Education. I have also served as co-chair of the Mission and Identity Conference of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities and as chair of the Mission Officers Council of the Conference for Mercy Higher Education.