Dr. Voltaire Villanueva serves as a Professor of Counseling and Psychology at Foothill College, where he also leads the Faculty Senate as its President. With over 25 years of experience in higher education, he has dedicated his career to helping students realize their full potential and prepare for the next chapter of their lives. In addition to his work at Foothill, he teaches as an adjunct instructor in the Counseling Psychology Department at the University of San Francisco. As both an educator and a faculty leader, Dr. Villanueva advocates for policies that empower faculty and, ultimately, support student success.

 

Dr. Villanueva earned his undergraduate degrees from San Francisco State University in Radio-Television Broadcasting and Asian American Studies. He holds a Master’s degree in Education from San Francisco State University, a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Drexel University, where his dissertation focused on Latino students in Emerging Adulthood. His commitment to education and service is long-standing, having served two terms (a total of six years) on the Live Oak School Board, including roles on the Trustees Committee, the Executive Committee, and as both Board Secretary and Vice Chair.

 

As a Drew Trustee, Dr. Villanueva hopes to support the school's mission by expanding access to a Drew education and ensuring that all students have opportunities for intellectual discovery and growth. He brings extensive experience in higher education, the training of K–12 school counselors, and governance leadership. Deeply aligned with Drew’s belief in the transformative power of student voice and agency, he looks forward to contributing to the school's continued success and innovation.

 

Born in the Philippines, Dr. Villanueva immigrated to San Francisco with his family when he was six months old and was raised in the Excelsior District. A proud first-generation college graduate, he brings a deep appreciation for access, opportunity, and the transformative power of education. Dr. Villanueva is married to Jeanes and is the proud parent of Addy (Drew Class of 2028) and Damien. In his free time, he enjoys long-distance running, traveling, and cheering for the San Francisco Giants and Arsenal Football Club. He believes deeply that all people deserve to be seen, heard, and valued; a principle that guides his teaching, leadership, and commitment to the Drew community.