Michael P. Moreland

Michael P. Moreland serves as University Professor of Law and Religion and Director of the Eleanor H. McCullen Center for Law, Religion and Public Policy at Villanova University School of Law. Appointed to this role in 2017 after joining the faculty in 2006, he previously served as Vice Dean (2012-2015) and brings extensive practical experience from his White House service under President George W. Bush.

Education:

• JD, University of Michigan Law School
• MA and PhD in Theological Ethics, Boston College
• BA in Philosophy, University of Notre Dame

Professor Moreland's scholarship critically examines the intersection of religious traditions with legal frameworks, with particular emphasis on constitutional law and religious freedom. His work explores how theological concepts inform tort law principles, analyzes the philosophical foundations of legal systems through friendship ethics, and investigates the role of tradition in legal interpretation. He frequently addresses contemporary tensions between religious liberty claims and secular governance through the lens of Catholic social teaching and constitutional jurisprudence.

His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on the relationship between Christianity and legal theory, with increasing attention to historical figures like John Henry Newman as resources for contemporary constitutional challenges. The work demonstrates sophisticated engagement with both doctrinal legal analysis and philosophical ethics.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Mary Ann Remick Senior Visiting Fellowship at Notre Dame Center for Ethics and Culture (2015-2017)
• Forbes Visiting Fellowship at Princeton's James Madison Program (2010-2011)
• John Templeton Foundation grant leadership for The Libertas Project (2013-2015)

As McCullen Center Director, Moreland oversees national programming, visiting scholars, and policy conferences while maintaining active engagement with governmental bodies. His prior White House service involved shaping domestic policy across criminal justice, immigration, and civil rights domains, demonstrating practical application of his scholarly expertise.

The McCullen Center serves as an interdisciplinary hub where Moreland fosters dialogue between legal scholars, religious leaders, and policymakers on emerging issues at the law-religion-public policy intersection.