Professor Painter taught courses in English and European History, including Tudor and Stuart England, Renaissance and Reformation Europe, and Modern Italy. He served as department chairman twice, dean of the faculty (1984-87), director of Italian programs (1989-2004) and interim president twice (1994-95, 2003-04). Upon retirement in 2004 the trustees named him Trinity’s 20th president.

Since retirement Professor Painter writes occasional book reviews for scholarly journals, has completed two books, and published several articles for reference works. He spearheaded the effort to establish Trinity’s first organization for retired faculty and professional staff.  

curriculum vitae