Joseph Shea (1829–1881) was a Jesuit priest and president of St. John's College (now Fordham University) from 1868 to 1874.

[4] Since those students would not return to Rose Hill after Christmas break, they were prepared to destroy the windows of the college buildings.

[4] Shea tried to ease the tension through numerous concessions, including the introduction of a smoking room, permitting some students to live in private rooms on the upper floors seminaries, and by introducing a six year commercial course of studies as an alternative to the classics-based curriculum.

[2][3] While Shea was unable to make all the improvements he wanted, during his presidency the arrival of Father Thomas J.A.

With Shea's support, Freeman was given space in the diocesan seminary building (today's St. John's Hall) to develop a science department and laboratory.