Joseph Morrison Skelly

Joseph Morrison Skelly, PhD is a Professor of History at the University of Mount Saint Vincent. He holds academic appointments including Chair of the Department of History (2025-26), Director of the Minor in Political Science (2014-2024), and Coordinator of Internships and Careers. Skelly teaches courses on international terrorism, Middle Eastern politics, military history, and European affairs. He earned his PhD and MA from University College Dublin and a BA from the University of Notre Dame.

Education

• PhD in History, University College Dublin
• MA in History, University College Dublin
• BA in History, University of Notre Dame

Research Interests focus on international terrorism, military strategy, Middle Eastern diplomacy, and Irish political history. His work explores topics such as counterterrorism policy, U.S. military interventions, and the role of moderate Muslims in global politics. He has published extensively on topics including the Iraq War, the Irish peace process, and U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.

Professional Contributions include leadership roles with the Association for the Study of the Middle East and Africa (Treasurer, 2007-2025) and the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies (2003-2007). He has presented at international conferences on topics such as post-war reconstruction and counterinsurgency strategies.

Awards include multiple Excellence in Teaching awards (2002, 2010, 2023), the 2016 General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award, and recognition in the Irish Voice's Irish Education 100 list (2015-16). His military service includes the U.S. Army Reserve (2001-2021) and National Guard (1996-2000), where he earned medals like the Bronze Star and Combat Action Badge.

Publications include books such as Political Islam from Muhammad to Ahmadinejad (2010) and over 30 scholarly articles on Middle Eastern and European history. Recent work addresses geopolitical shifts in the Middle East and the legacy of colonial military campaigns.