Dr. Fred Pestello, President | St. Louis University
Dr. Fred Pestello, President | St. Louis University
Thomas Finan, Ph.D., an associate professor of history at Saint Louis University, has been awarded a Fulbright Specialist Award. This program allows experienced U.S. faculty and professionals to serve as expert consultants abroad for short-term projects, typically lasting two to six weeks. In 2025, Finan will be among more than 400 U.S. citizens sharing their expertise with international host institutions.
The selection for the Fulbright Specialist awards is based on academic and professional achievements, leadership in one's field, and potential to foster long-term cooperation between U.S. and foreign institutions.
Finan's project aims to enhance interdisciplinary research collaborations by creating digital tools that explore Ireland’s medieval past. "By creating a shared resource for archaeological and historical data, we not only build stronger connections between institutions but also provide scholars with innovative tools to explore Ireland’s history in new ways," Finan stated.
His expertise lies in digital humanities and database management, developing digital repositories that link various forms of historical and archaeological data. He is also recognized for using geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze medieval landscapes.
While primarily intended for scholars, Finan noted that the project would include photos and images appealing to casual history enthusiasts as well.
Finan's work focuses on medieval Ireland, particularly the intersection of history, archaeology, and landscape analysis. He has led numerous archaeological surveys in Ireland, including significant research at the Rock of Lough Key.
His ongoing collaboration with the University of Galway highlights his commitment to fostering research partnerships between U.S. and Irish institutions. His research has received support from organizations like the Royal Irish Academy and has been published in leading medieval studies journals. He is a member of the Comite Permanante of Chateau Gaillard and a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London.
Finan's work over the past two decades is currently showcased at the Saint Louis University Museum of Art (SLUMA). As director of the North Roscommon Archaeological Projects, he leads extensive surveys within Moylurg's medieval lordship. The SLUMA exhibit invites visitors to explore these artifacts firsthand.
The exhibition "Past Beneath Our Feet" will be open until June 1.
The Fulbright Program is a key international educational exchange initiative sponsored by the U.S. government aimed at building lasting connections globally. It receives funding through an annual appropriation by Congress to the Department of State and operates in over 160 countries worldwide with additional support from participating governments and organizations.