Matthew Gaetano

Matthew Gaetano is a Professor of History at Hillsdale College, where he specializes in Renaissance and Early Modern Catholic Theology, Scholasticism, and the intersection of philosophy and religion. He earned his B.A. from Hillsdale College (2005), followed by M.A. (2007) and Ph.D. (2013) in History from the University of Pennsylvania.

• Education: B.A., M.A., Ph.D. in History
• Key Affiliations: Mullins Scholar at the Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies (2010–present)

His research explores the evolution of Thomism during the Renaissance, the dynamics of Protestant-Catholic theological debates (e.g., De auxiliis Controversy, Synod of Dordt), and the role of classical education in shaping Western intellectual traditions. His publications often analyze primary sources, such as Francisco Suárez’s works and the Colloquy of Regensburg, bridging historical scholarship with philosophical inquiry.

The thematic focus of his recent articles (2012–2025) spans Early Modern Catholic Theology, Scholasticism, Renaissance Intellectual History, and theological responses to Protestantism. Keywords include Theology, Philosophy, History, Scholasticism, Renaissance Studies, and Religious Controversies.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Dissertation Prize from the Society of Italian Historical Studies (2015)
  • Gladys Krieble Delmas Foundation Fellowship (2009–2010)
  • Lemmermann Fondazione Fellowship (2010)

Gaetano is actively engaged in academic memberships, including Renaissance Society of America, Sixteenth Century Society, and the Society for Early Modern Catholic Studies. His teaching philosophy emphasizes dialogues between past and present ideas, particularly through the lens of the Western Heritage curriculum.