History Professor Elected to Medieval Academy of America Council

History Professor Elected to Medieval Academy of America Council

Tom Barton, PhD, a distinguished scholar in the Department of History at the University of San Diego, has been elected as one of the councilors for the Medieval Academy of America (MAA). This prestigious position marks a significant milestone in Dr. Barton's career and enhances USD's reputation as a serious research institution.

Founded in 1925, the MAA is the largest organization in the United States promoting excellence in the field of medieval studies. MAA publishes the quarterly journal Speculum and awards prizes, grants and fellowships to support research, publication and teaching in various aspects of the Middle Ages. The MAA Council oversees financial matters, staff salaries, the annual budget, hiring and policy, playing a crucial role in shaping the organization's direction. Dr. Barton's term will commence at the upcoming annual meeting in March and will run through the annual meeting in March 2028.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Barton said, "Thank you, Michael Gonzalez and Noelle Norton, so much for all of your support of my research and service to my field. I wouldn’t have been able to build up my international reputation without your generous help over the years."

The results of the 2025 governance elections were announced by Executive Director of the MAA Lisa Fagin Davis. Alongside Dr. Barton, the newly elected councilors include Abigail Balbale (New York University, Middle Eastern Studies), Carrie Beneš (New College of Florida, History) and Diane Reilly (Indiana University, Art History). The election also saw Peggy McCracken (University of Michigan, French and Comparative Literature) elected as president, Haruko Momma (New York University, English) as 1st vice-president and Thomas Burman (University of Notre Dame, History) as 2nd vice-president.

Dr. Barton feels tremendously privileged to have been entrusted with this honor. His election to the council is expected to provide him with meaningful opportunities to help shape the organization and the field of medieval studies in North America as well as open the door for other leadership positions in the MAA.

As Dr. Barton prepares to take on his new role, he remains committed to advancing research and scholarship in medieval studies. His colleagues at USD and the broader academic community look forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly make during his tenure as a councilor.

Congratulations to Dr. Barton on this remarkable achievement!

Contact:

Department of History
history@sandiego.edu
(619) 260-4756