His primary areas of scholarship are American studies with an emphasis on Oklahoma music and culture, Native American studies, and cinema. He has been published in numerous professional forums, and his video compilations on Native American music and culture have been shown at national conferences and on public television in several states.

 

Involved actively with radio broadcasting since 1977, he serves as the faculty consultant to the campus radio station, RSU Radio, and as faculty advisor for the RSU Native American Student Association.

 

In 2005, Foley was elected president of the Oklahoma Folklife Council.