[2] He graduated from La Salle Academy in his hometown, began his Society of Jesus studies in 1923, and studied philosophy at Weston College in Massachusetts during 1927–1930.

[3] FitzGerald was ordained in 1935, and received a Master of Education degree from Saint Louis University in Missouri in 1938.

[3] During 1958–1964, FitzGerald served as president of Fairfield University.

[3][4] During his tenure, Alumni Hall was opened in 1959, the Graduate Department of Education became the Graduate School of Education in 1963, and Campion Hall was opened in 1964.

[4] After his time at Fairfield, FitzGerald took a role in Boston as prefect of studies for Jesuits in the New England area.