Michael Davila was named executive associate dean and chief wellness officer

Michael Davila has been appointed as the University of Pittsburgh’s executive associate dean and chief wellness officer, effective Oct. 13.

Bringing extensive experience in crisis response, behavioral intervention, mental health services expansion and holistic programming, Davila will provide strategic leadership in advancing the University’s comprehensive approach to student wellness, which has profound impact on student success and engagement. In the newly created role, he will oversee Campus Recreation, Student Health Services, the University Counseling Center, Care and Resource Support and the Office of Financial Wellness in partnership with the Office of Financial Aid and Admissions.

 “Now is the time to reimagine the philosophical foundations of the student experience and to embed well-being across all aspects of campus life,” said Davila in a Sept. 11 announcement. He said he sees tremendous potential at Pitt to “pioneer an integrated program that prepares students not only for academic and professional success, but also for lifelong well-being.”

Davila joins the Pittsburgh campus from Pitt-Bradford, where he has served as vice president and dean of student affairs since May 2022 and is a member of the President's Cabinet. At Pitt-Bradford, he led a comprehensive portfolio including residence life and housing, health and counseling services, career services and more. Serving as a visible and engaged advocate for students, he also represents Student Affairs in institutional strategic planning, policy development, and community partnerships. His recent initiatives include enhancing the first-year experience and developing a new mission and strategic plan for Student Affairs at the regional campus.

Prior to that, Davila served as associate vice chancellor and dean of students at the University of Arkansas at Monticello and served as dean of students at Navarro College in Texas. A lifelong learner, he earned his Doctor of Education in higher education leadership from Texas Christian University, where his dissertation examined the emotional labor of student affairs work. He also holds a Master of Education in higher education administration from Dallas Baptist University and a Bachelor of Arts in religion from East Texas Baptist University. In July 2025, he completed the Institute for Educational Management at Harvard University, a premier executive program for higher education leaders, and has also pursued advanced coursework in leadership and Ignatian traditions at Creighton University and Brite Divinity School.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Michael since he started at Pitt-Bradford, and I’ve always been impressed with how seamless our work has been — he is an excellent colleague,” said Vice Provost for Student Affairs Carla Panzella. “I look forward to the innovative perspectives and collaborative leadership he will bring to our division as we work together to support student success and well-being across the University of Pittsburgh.”