Mark “Bo” Connell Tapped as New Vice President for Finance and Administration

Connell brings broad financial and administrative experience to lead efforts to expand financial sustainability at the College.

Washington College has named Mark “Bo” Connell as vice president for finance and administration following a national search. Bringing with him an array of financial and administrative experience, Connell will serve as the chief financial officer and oversee a number of offices including information technology, dining services, and buildings and grounds. 

Connell joins Washington from the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law, where he served as the associate dean for finance, administration, and strategy. In this role he was a collaborative leader in overseeing the school’s finances, managing operations, and working with faculty to strengthen and foster a culture of trust and respect. 

“I’m really excited to have Bo Connell join the leadership team. His unique background working within some highly specialized environments will help us begin to think about Washington College in new ways,” said President Mike Sosulski. “I’m sure he will quickly become an important and collaborative voice in helping shape the future of this great college.” 

Connell joins Washington at a pivotal moment. The institution recently kicked off Vision 2032, a campus master planning process informed by the College’s 2023-27 strategic plan that will transform the Washington College student experience. With new facilities, broadening financial support for students, and expanded curricular offerings, the College is strengthening its financial position and expanding its reach. 

"I’m excited to join the outstanding team at Washington College during this pivotal time in its history. I look forward to collaborating with everyone to build a diverse, thriving academic community that upholds the highest ethical standards,” said Connell. “I find the College’s enduring values of integrity, curiosity, leadership, and moral courage inspiring, and I am eager to join a community that fosters these ideals." 

Following a career in hospital administration, Connell transitioned to higher education as the director of strategic initiatives at Savannah College of Art and Design. He went on to hold executive-level positions with the Penn School of Veterinary Medicine and the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences before joining Villanova in 2019. 

Connell received his bachelor’s from Florida State University and earned a Master of Health Administration from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Florida. 

He will join the Washington College community on July 1.