St. Germain Memorial Lecture

About Professor St. Germain

Professor James J. St. Germain taught at Merrimack College from 1951 to 1981 in the history, political science and social science departments. He served as chair of History and later, after its establishment as an independent department, the first chair of Political Science in 1965.

A native of Connecticut, he made Massachusetts his home when he moved here to teach at Merrimack. A graduate of Providence College, he received his master’s degree from the University of Connecticut. Upon his retirement from Merrimack in 1981, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Social Science by the college.

Professor St. Germain not only taught American politics and government, he inspired his students to acquire experience in the field through internships, with one the first being in the Washington, D.C. office of Senator John F. Kennedy in 1957. He encouraged all his students to be actively involved, informed and aware citizens and helped many students go on to graduate or law school and to careers in government and public service. He and his wife, Frances, opened their home to students and hosted many events there, including lively discussions and debates.

A world traveler himself, he urged students to travel, work and study in other countries. He coordinated programs for Merrimack’s International Relations Club in the 1950s and was an early proponent of the Peace Corps and other programs which provided an opportunity for community service and experience of other societies and cultures.  He participated in the American Political Science Association’s 1963 World Tour Seminar to Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, and worked with seminar colleagues to implement graduate school opportunities for his students.

Professor St. Germain was a dedicated golfer and early advocate of the Merrimack College President’s Cup golf tournament.  He was also an ardent fan of Merrimack’s team sports, especially ice hockey.