Dr. Angela Vidal-Rodríguez named Dean of St. Augustine College at Lewis University

Chicago,- Angela Vidal-Rodríguez has been appointed Dean of St. Augustine College at Lewis University, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience in higher education and a strong commitment to student success and inclusive innovation.

A recognized advocate for equity in education, Vidal-Rodríguez is known for her collaborative leadership style and her ability to strengthen institutional performance through data-informed strategies and cross-sector partnerships. In her new role, she will help guide the future of St. Augustine College while preserving its legacy as a bilingual, community-centered institution serving adult learners.

Prior to joining Lewis University, Vidal-Rodríguez served as Assistant Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Valparaiso University, where she led initiatives to improve student retention, expand access, and enhance outcomes for diverse student populations. Her previous experience also includes leadership roles at Northeastern Illinois University, where she directed federally and state-funded student success programs.

Earlier in her career, at the University of Michigan, she led research teams focused on advancing inclusive policies across higher education institutions nationwide.

Vidal-Rodríguez holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education with a concentration in Organizational Behavior and Management from the University of Michigan, an MBA from Northeastern Illinois University, and a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Universidad Anáhuac in Mexico City.

Her research centers on organizational behavior and public policy impacting access and success for historically underserved students. Her recent work examines how state policies influence student outcomes and how institutions respond to both internal and external pressures while advancing equity.

As she steps into her new role, Vidal-Rodríguez emphasized her commitment to supporting students, faculty, and staff while continuing to expand access to higher education opportunities.

She will oversee the continued evolution of St. Augustine College at Lewis University, with a focus on strengthening its mission of providing accessible, bilingual education rooted in community and opportunity.