Bryan McGovern Named Chair of the Department of History and Philosophy

KENNESAW, Ga. (May 16, 2022) — After having served as interim chair and program coordinator for the Department of History and Philosophy at the Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the selection committee has named Bryan McGovern to serve as chair of the department effective July 1, 2022. During his time as interim chair, McGovern demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the department’s and the college’s mission of developing and delivering a curriculum that elevates the relevance of historical events and philosophical constructs that guide students’ critical thinking about the world around them.

“I am honored and excited to continue my work preparing our KSU students for their future and to being an advocate for our faculty and staff,” said McGovern. “Our world is more complex, interconnected, and politically challenging than ever. Having a thorough grasp of history and philosophy is a foundation that enables students to successfully pursue careers in business, politics, law, public service, and education among others. Applying that understanding for practical purposes to shape their future is testament to the value of study in the humanities,” he added.

The Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences is focused on delivering educational experiences to students through rigorous course work, research opportunities, collaborative study, and inspired engagement. “Bryan McGovern is the embodiment of a student-centered educator and leader,” said Dean Kaukinen. “KSU and the Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences are growing quickly, and our ability to be nimble, meet students where they are, and offer educational opportunities that position them for success is the commitment we make every day. I am very excited to have Bryan as chair because I know he is committed to our students’ success.”

The Department of History and Philosophy’s award-winning faculty take an engaging and holistic approach to their subject matter and challenge students to develop their writing, and critical and analytical reasoning skills. “We aren’t just teaching facts and dates,” said McGovern. “We cultivate a learning environment that places a high value on collaboration, empathy, and context. It isn’t just understanding the ‘what’ of history and philosophy, but the ‘why’ and the ‘how’, which makes the subject matter relevant to today’s issues,” he said.

Bryan McGovern earned his Ph.D. in History from the University of Missouri and his M.A. in history for the University of Cincinnati. He came to Kennesaw State University in 2007 where he is a Professor of History and History Education teaching courses in American and Irish history. Prior to joining KSU, he served as an Assistant Professor of History at Quincy University. He was previously Program Coordinator of History Education at KSU for eight years and at QU for four years. His research field is Irish American Nationalism, and he authored John Mitchel: Irish Nationalist, Southern Secessionist and co-authored The Fenians: Irish Rebellion in the North Atlantic World, 1858–1867. He has also written various articles on Young Ireland, Irish immigration, and sectarianism within Irish America.