Christopher Kiernan papers, 1975-2009 (RG21.6)

Biographical Note

Christopher Michael Kiernan (October 10, 1943- August 10, 2009) was a longtime administrator, staff member, and faculty member at Salve Regina University. He attended Assumption College for his Bachelor's (1965) and Master's (1970) degrees in history, and received his Doctorate of Education from Boston College.

After working at St. Joseph's College in Standish, Maine, Kiernan came to Salve Regina College in 1980 to work as as Assistant to the President for Development of Enrollment. Over his tenure at the isntitution, he also served as Dean of Admissions, Vice President of Student Services, and Vice President for Academic Affairs/Academic Dean and Academic Vice President. His work included transitioning from college to university, maintaining accreditation, developing the Ph. D program, and creating an American Studies undergraduate program. An avid basketball player in his youth, he also coached basketball at various points in his career. He served as Academic Vice President and occasionally as a men's basketball coach. In 1995, he ended his administrative role and served as full-time faculty, teaching in history, education, and American studies.

Kiernan married Margaret Livingstone and they had four daughters: Kathleen, Coleen, Marlene, and Christine. He served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve. St. Augustin Church's in Newport was his parish and he was a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. He was inducted into the Salve Regina University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015.