Kevin Hughes, PhD
Professor of Historical Theology; Chairperson, Theology and Religious Studies | College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Villanova PA UNITED STATES
Kevin Hughes, PhD, is a frequent commentator on Catholicism and contemporary culture.
Media
Areas of Expertise
Biography
Dr. Hughes specializes in Catholic theology and culture, with scholarly interests in art, architecture, poetry, mysticism and spirituality. His studies have focused in particular on the Middle Ages and on 20th-century Catholic theological renewal movements. Beyond his research, Dr. Hughes is a widely sought-after speaker in both academic and pastoral settings on topics in Christian spirituality, Catholic higher education and interreligious dialogue; and he frequently comments on subjects relating to Catholicism and contemporary culture.
Education
University of Chicago
PhD
University of Chicago
MA
Villanova University
BA
Select Accomplishments
Cross Pro Pontifice et Ecclesia
Received from Pope Francis in 2018 for "Outstanding Contributions to Catholic Higher Education."
Select Media Appearances
With Algeria Visit, Pope Leo Returns to His Roots in a Holy Order
The New York Times
2026-04-14
"I have no fear, neither of the Trump administration, nor of speaking out loudly about the message of the Gospel. And that's what I believe I am called here to do," the pope said while speaking to journalists traveling on the plane with him to Africa... Kevin Hughes, a professor of theology at Villanova University, said Leo's words hark back to specific elements of the teaching of Augustine, particularly in his monumental work, "The City of God."
Pope Leo Promotes a Global Vision in Africa
The Wall Street Journal
2026-04-13
Pope Leo XIV is heading off on a four-country tour of Africa, a continent of growing importance for the Catholic Church... "The church is thriving in many parts of Africa, and seminaries there are full in a way they are not in the U.S. or Europe," said Kevin Hughes, a professor of theology at Villanova University. "The future of the church is as much below the equator as above it."
100 Days of Pope Leo XIV: A Calm Papacy That Avoids Polemics Is Coming Into Focus
Associated Press
2025-08-16
As Robert Prevost marks his 100th day as Pope Leo this weekend, the contours of his pontificate have begun to come into relief, primarily where he shows continuity with Francis and where he signals change... "He's been very direct and forthright... but he's not doing spontaneous press hits," said Kevin Hughes, chair of theology and religious studies at Leo's alma mater, Villanova University. Leo has a different style than Francis, and that has brought relief to many, Hughes said in a telephone interview.
"We Are Really Enjoying This Moment": Villanova Professor on Graduate Becoming Pope
ABC News
2025-05-09
Kevin Hughes, chair of theology and religious studies at Villanova University, discusses Pope Leo XIV's alma mater celebrating Robert Prevost becoming pontiff.
From Villanova to the Vatican: Alma Mater Is Floored It Taught the First U.S. Pope
Associated Press
2025-05-09
Kevin Hughes, a theology and religious studies professor at Villanova, said Thursday that he and several people who were in his office went silent when they heard the news because they couldn't believe Prevost—an American—had been chosen. Hughes described Prevost as a very gentle soul and somebody who knows how to connect with people.
After a First Round of Black Smoke, What Happens Next in the Vatican Conclave?
Scripps News
2025-05-07
Cardinals from around the world had sequestered themselves earlier in the day, beginning the secretive process of choosing a successor to Pope Francis, who died last month. To be elected, a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority—at least 89 votes. Scripps News spoke with Kevin Hughes, the Chairperson for Theology and Religious Studies at Villanova University, about what to expect as the conclave continues.
Select Academic Articles
The Providential Failure of Christianity: Rene Girard, Ivan Illich and the Renewal of Apocalyptic Theology
Pro Ecclesia: A Journal of Catholic and Evangelical TheologyKevin Hughes
2019
By Its Fruits: The Spiritual Senses in Bonaventure's "Tree of Life"
Medieval Mystical TheologyKevin Hughes
2019