Joseph R. Reilly

Joseph Richard Reilly is an American Catholic priest and academic administrator who has served as the 22nd president of Seton Hall University since July 2024.

Early life and education Reilly was born in Mountainside, New Jersey. He received his early education from Seton Hall Preparatory School. Later, he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Seton Hall University in 1987. In 2004, he earned a Ph.D. in educational administration from Fordham University. His appointment represented a return to the university's tradition of leadership by a priest.

Awards and honors In 2005, Pope John Paul II named him a Chaplain of His Holiness, granting him the title of Monsignor. In 2015, Pope Francis selected him as a Missionary of Mercy for the Holy Year of Mercy. That same year, the Irish Voice named him to its annual Irish Education 100 list.