His teaching and research interests are in American politics. Within the Department of Public and Community Service Studies, Joe teaches the practicum and Introduction to Service in Democratic Communities. He has edited a book on citizenship education and conducts research on the linkages between social well being and political activity among young people. He has also published articles on the politics of political campaigns. Prior to coming to Providence College, he taught for six years at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, Syracuse University. He is originally from New Jersey (Exit 10), and received his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Rutgers University.