Delaware Valley University Names Dr. Benjamin Rusiloski VPAA

After serving in an interim role for a year, Dr. Benjamin E. Rusiloski has been named the permanent vice president for academic affairs (VPAA) and dean of the faculty at Delaware Valley University. Dr. Rusiloski was most recently dean of the School of Life and Physical Sciences at DelVal in addition to the interim VPAA.

“Ben has served the University well in the interim role and has overwhelming support from the University community,” said DelVal President Dr. Maria Gallo. “He has vastly improved the academic experience for DelVal’s students during his more than 20 years of service to our campus. I look forward to working with him toward the continued success of this great institution.”

Dr. Rusiloski joined DelVal’s faculty in 1994 as an assistant professor of chemistry. Since then, he has served as a professor, chaired two departments, and served as a dean. As dean of the School of Life and Physical Sciences, he was responsible for overseeing all academic-related matters, including program development, evaluation, faculty development, strategic planning, and budgeting for the school. 

As dean, he was the principal investigator for a $707,569 award from the National Science Foundation and a $150,000 gift from the Mandell Foundation that were used to renovate five science laboratories on campus. Additionally, he helped secure funding from Bristol-Myers Squibb to support student research.

“Delaware Valley University is a place that I’m proud to be a part of, and I’m honored to be stepping into the role of vice president for academic affairs,” said Dr. Rusiloski. “This institution has excellent faculty who are personally invested in the success of each student. One of my top priorities as an administrator is working with employers to make sure DelVal’s academic programs give students the skills and experience they will need to be successful.”

Since 2012, Dr. Rusiloski has also served as executive director of the University’s Center for Student Professional Development. In that role, he led the team that developed and implemented the Experience360 Program. The program, which has become a hallmark of a DelVal education, uses real-world experiences and employer feedback to prepare students for success as young professionals. 

As VPAA, Dr. Rusiloski will continue to guide the School of Life and Physical Sciences until a new dean is appointed. He also will remain responsible for the Center for Student Professional Development over the next academic year.

Dr. Rusiloski earned his B.S. in chemistry from King's College and his Ph.D. in physical chemistry from Duke University.