At the Partnership's inaugural 2024 Nollaig na mBan Women's Leadership Celebration on January 11, we had the privilege of paying tribute to Mary Robinson, the 7th President of Ireland, Chair of The Elders, and former UN High Commissioner of Human Rights.

The Irish American Partnership has reimagined this old-world tradition honoring the invaluable work of strong Irish women, by reclaiming Nollaig na mBan as an opportunity to recognize women’s leadership and its indelible impact in our communities and our world. Our special iteration is an enthusiastic celebration of women, their strengths, their dedication, and their dreams.

More than 350 of our friends and supporters enjoyed powerful remarks from Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, and Consul General of Ireland in Chicago and the Midwest USA - Kevin Byrne. Together, we honored the tremendous impact of Mary Robinson - an amazing female leader who in courageously following her principles has also transformed our world for the better. We were held in rapt attention for an important discussion with Samantha Barry, Editor-in-Chief of Conde Nast's Glamour magazine, which touched upon climate change, leadership, The Elders, and more.

In recognition of our honoree, the Partnership was delighted to present a $10,000 grant to the Mary Robinson Centre in Ballina, Co. Mayo. The Centre is Ireland’s first Presidential Library and Museum which will serve as a permanent reminder of female leaders in Ireland’s history and will be an educational resource for students across the Globe.

Special thanks to our Honorary Chair Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason, and to our Host Committee and generous Sponsors.

Together, we invest in the people, the culture, and the ideas that are writing the next chapter in Irish history. We are so grateful to count you among the friends of the Partnership.