Robert J. Fulton | |
|---|---|
 Fulton c. 1880 | |
| 3rd & 8th President of Boston College | |
| In office 1888–1891 | |
| Preceded by | Nicholas Russo |
| Succeeded by | Edward I. Devitt |
| In office 1870–1880 | |
| Preceded by | Robert W. Brady |
| Succeeded by | Jeremiah O'Connor |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Robert James Fulton June 28, 1826 Alexandria, District of Columbia, U.S. |
| Died | September 4, 1895 (aged 69) Santa Clara, California, U.S. |
| Resting place | Santa Clara Mission Cemetery |
| Alma mater | Georgetown College |
| Orders | |
| Ordination | July 25, 1857 by Francis Kenrick |
Robert James Fulton SJ (June 28, 1826 – September 4, 1895) was an American Catholic priest and Jesuit who twice served as the president of Boston College, from 1870 to 1880 and 1888 to 1891. He was influential in the early years of Boston College, as he was in charge of all the school's academic affairs.
Fulton was born and educated in the District of Columbia, including at Georgetown College. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1843, and taught at Jesuit institutions throughout Washington, Maryland, and Massachusetts. He eventually became the first prefect of studies at the newly founded Boston College, overseeing the school's teachers and curriculum. In 1870, Fulton became the president of the college. He oversaw expansion of its facilities, and founded what would later be named the Fulton Debating Society.
In 1882, Fulton became the provincial superior of the Jesuit Maryland-New York Province, and was made the canonical visitor to the Irish Province in 1886. In 1888, Fulton returned to Boston College as president, overseeing further expansion and the separation of Boston College High School. He died at Santa Clara University in 1895. Fulton Hall and the Fulton Debating Society at Boston College are named for him.