Dr. Paul F. Healy ’66

A member of Austin Prep’s first graduating class, Dr. Paul F. Healy built a distinguished academic career spanning four decades and became a leading authority on ancient Maya archaeology.

Pursuing a Lifelong Passion for Archaeology

From the fifth grade, Paul F. Healy knew he wanted to become an archaeologist. After graduating with Austin Prep’s inaugural Class of 1966, he headed west to the University of California, Berkeley, earning an honors degree in anthropology in 1970. He then returned to Massachusetts and continued his studies at Harvard University, where he earned a master’s degree in anthropology in 1972 and a doctorate in 1974.

Building a Program and Advancing a Field

Following two years at Rutgers University, Dr. Healy joined Trent University in Ontario in the mid-1970s and helped establish its anthropology program. A leading expert on Mesoamerican archaeology and the ancient Maya of Belize, he directed investigations at several important sites, including Pacbitun, Caracol, Cahal Pech, and Moho Cay. His fieldwork carried him across seven countries, producing a career of discovery and adventure worthy of the big screen. Dr. Healy authored or edited six books and produced more than 100 articles, book chapters, and reviews on archaeology in the Americas.

Leading Through Scholarship and Service

During his four decades at Trent, Dr. Healy served as Chair of the Department of Anthropology, Director of the Anthropology Graduate Program, Founding Director of the Trent University Archaeological Research Centre, Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, and Dean of Arts and Science. His contributions earned him the Trent University Distinguished Research Award for lifetime achievement in the social sciences. He retired in 2013 as professor emeritus but has remained connected to his field through continued research collaboration in Belize. Dr. Healy credits Austin Prep with instilling the discipline and critical-thinking skills that became the foundation of his remarkable career. His advice to today’s students reflects the way he has approached his own life: “Take full advantage of opportunities, and use time wisely.”

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