Paul McNellis, S.J., taught political philosophy and social ethics at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, Italy, before coming to Boston College to teach in the Perspectives program.

His most formative experience was growing up in Minnesota as the oldest of nine children, which proved
to be an excellent preparation for two later challenges
in life: military service in Vietnam and entering the New York Province of the Society of Jesus.

As for the latter, being the sole Midwesterner among NY Province Jesuits, a special mission fell to him. He reminded native New Yorkers that the term "the city," as
in "Let's go to the city," could have a referent other than "New York." One could, for example, have in mind Minneapolis, Chicago, Seattle, Omaha, Cleveland, or even Duluth.

Before entering the Jesuits he worked in Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia, as a soldier, journalist, and refugee relief worker. Since 1995 he has periodically taught in Vietnam and Cambodia.

His pastoral work as a Jesuit includes prison ministry, Project Rachel; and The Sons of St. Patrick, a group of Christian gentlemen at Boston College.

Capstone course:

UN553/PL553: Poets, Philosophers, and Mapmakers

Other courses taught:

PL/TH 90, 91: Perspectives on Western Culture
UN109, UN110: New Horizons of the Social Sciences

Office:

21 Campanella Way, Room 360 J
Office hours: M F 3:00-3:45 p.m., and by appointment
Telephone: 617-552-6080
Email: mcnellis@bc.edu