Joseph Fisher (priest)

Joseph Fisher (born c. 1768, died 1840) was an Irish Roman Catholic priest and educationalist. He is primarily known for his role as President of St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, a major seminary in Ireland, from 1834 until his death.

Fisher was ordained a priest in 1792. Before his appointment as President of Maynooth, he held various positions within the college, including professor of logic and moral philosophy, and Vice-President under Presidents Bartholomew Crotty and Michael Slattery.

His tenure as President saw a period of consolidation and growth for Maynooth. He oversaw improvements in the college's infrastructure and academic standing, solidifying its role in the education of Irish Catholic clergy. He was regarded as a capable administrator, focused on maintaining order and discipline within the large and sometimes fractious student body. While not considered a revolutionary figure, Fisher's steady leadership was instrumental in maintaining Maynooth's importance during a crucial period in Irish history, marked by increasing Catholic emancipation efforts.