Developing young leaders Supporting new thinking Creating a shared future
Annual Report 2013 Contents
Letter from the Chairperson 1 Executive Summary 2
Chapter 1 WIP Organization & Governance 3
Chapter 2 WIP Alumni Community 5
Chapter 3 The WIP Class of 2013 9
Chapter 4 Key WIP Activities & Events in 2013 18
Chapter 5 Host Families 21 Kevin J. Sullivan Letter from the Chairperson
For 19 years, the Washington Ireland Program (WIP) has supported peace and reconciliation efforts in Northern Ireland and Ireland.
Identifying young people with a commitment possibility of peace. You have to remind The WIP Class of 2013 also presented the to service and a track record of leadership, us of hope again and again and again. third annual WIP papers to a group of WIP builds their skills through work Despite resistance, despite setbacks, despite politicians and practitioners for discussion experience, educational opportunity, and hardship, despite tragedy, you have to and debate. They developed three policy hands-on citizenship both in the U.S. and at remind us of the future again and again documents, which examined the under- home in Northern Ireland and Ireland. and again.” I am confident that the WIP representation of minority groups in the Community is contributing greatly to this political sphere; mental health in young The graduation of the WIP Class of 2013 effort of consolidating the peace process. people during the transition to University marked a crucial milestone for WIP with or College; and the creation of a body to our thriving WIP Community surpassing The demand to be part of our WIP monitor and evaluate the positive impact of 500 alum. WIP’s 525 alum represent a rising Community continues to grow. The sport in reconciliation. generation of leaders committed to service, recruitment process to join the WIP Class peace and prosperity in Ireland and Northern of 2013 was the most competitive yet with As we reflect upon WIP’s many achievements Ireland. 525 applications received. We offered a in 2013, it would be remiss not to wide variety of internships in Congressional acknowledge the work and steadfast support To consolidate this achievement WIP offices, federal agencies, newsrooms, of our network of government, university, launched a new series of alum initiatives nonprofits and businesses in Washington nonprofit, and corporate partners. The future at the U.S. Embassy in Dublin. The alum D.C. This gave the WIP Class of 2013 of WIP lies not just in our alum but also in initiatives included a series of leadership the opportunity to develop the skills and the hands of our supporters and friends. You dinners in Belfast, Dublin and London, a confidence that they need to address the provide work placements, homes for our mentoring scheme and the launch of a new urgent challenges of a post-conflict Ireland, students and financial support. In all these dedicated website for WIP alum from its economic troubles to the ongoing roles, your help allows WIP’s young emerging (alum.wiprogram.org). sectarian divides. leaders take on leadership and service roles in diverse fields, from public policy and Another highlight for WIP in 2013 was It was a pleasure to present the WIP Class journalism to business and advocacy. the formal thanks received from President of 2013 with their graduation certificates in To each and every one of you we say thank Obama for our support of his visit to Belfast. Derry-Londonderry alongside Martin Reilly, you. We hope you will join us to celebrate Over 50 WIP Alum supported the event by the Mayor of Derry and WIP Alumnus from WIP’s 20th Anniversary next year and stay volunteering at the Waterfront Hall where 1999 at the University of Ulster Magee’s Great with WIP into the future as we continue President Obama delivered his keynote Hall. The graduation ceremony was followed to support Ireland and Northern Ireland’s speech. During the speech President Obama by a reception, then a walk across the new leaders of tomorrow. outlined the following challenge to young ‘Peace Bridge’ to a City of Culture event— people in Northern Ireland: “You must “The Walled City Tattoo”. Kevin J. Sullivan remind us of the existence of peace — the Chairman of the Board
Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 1 Our Purpose
For nearly twenty years the Washington- WIP Vision peaceful and prosperous Northern Ireland Ireland Program (WIP) has supported peace and Ireland. As part of WIP’s deeply held and reconciliation efforts in Northern Ireland WIP’s vision is for a peaceful Northern commitment to service, each student also and Ireland. Identifying young people with a Ireland and Ireland with mutually supportive completes a thirty-hour public service commitment to service and a track record of and constructive relationships between and placement in their local community before leadership, WIP builds their skills through within all communities. departing for D.C., and also completes work experience, educational opportunity, regular service projects with WIP partners and hands-on citizenship both in the US and WIP Mission during their time in D.C. at home in Northern Ireland and Ireland. WIP’s mission is to develop, support and The WIP program culminates with a Both Northern Ireland and Ireland face engage generations of leaders who can build Graduation ceremony in August. Upon significant challenges that have an impact and sustain these relationships graduation, students join the WIP Alum upon the sustainability of the peace process Community – an active and vibrant and the economic viability of the island. In WIP believes that we have the capacity to network of young professionals based this post-conflict context it is vital that a new create opportunities for the answers to be primarily in Northern Ireland and Ireland. generation of leaders emerge to take on the found to the pressing issues that are facing Professional development courses, mantle of leadership and public service in the Ireland and Northern Ireland today. The core networking opportunities, leadership years ahead. program is not about ‘teaching leadership’ dinners, fundraising and social events and a but rather about creating the crucible for mentoring scheme are some of the activities WIP believes in the value of creating positive constructive relationships to be formed. It is in which the WIP Alum engage. personal and working relationships among WIP’s goal to create increasing opportunities individuals with diverse views, backgrounds for these relationships to be formed and By September 2013, more than 500 young and political perspectives. These strengthened, both in Washington D.C. adults from Ireland had graduated from relationships should be underpinned by a and in Ireland and Northern Ireland. These WIP, representing different traditions and sense of empathy, and respect for divergent opportunities will be led by our alum, but backgrounds in Northern Ireland and points of view as well as a personal sense of include many people outside our immediate Ireland. Many graduates are now emerging in humility. network who share our values and vision for important careers in politics, law, business, the future. communications, education and community With this in mind, the WIP Board went organizations. As they move into critical through a lengthy process to revise WIP’s University students selected to participate in leadership roles, they retain their connection vision and mission statements to reflect the WIP participate in a unique and challenging with WIP and continue to give back to their goals and values of the organization. The six-month program of personal and local communities through an active alum results are as follows: professional development. Two months of network. Our 525 alum now represent a this is spent in Washington, D.C. As part rising generation of leaders committed to of the experience, students undertake a service, peace and prosperity in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Pictured above: demanding work placement coupled with The graduates of 2013 gather on the steps of the an intensive leadership curriculum that Capitol Building in Washington D.C. helps to train them for roles as leaders of a 2 / Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 Chapter 1: WIP Organization & Governance
1.1 / WIP Board & Executive WIP’s Board of Directors The Staff of the Washington Management Ireland Program Jim Boland, Chris Bollard, John Buscher, WIP was delighted to welcome a new board Frank Cantrel Jr., Jim Carroll, Prof. Roger Bryan Patten member in 2013: Downer, Breidge Gadd, Heather McCormick, Kristin Leary, B.R. McConnon III, Patrick Dr. Duncan Morrow McDermott, Kevin Moran, Dr. Duncan Morrow, Paul Quinn, Anne Shields, Kevin Dr. Duncan Morrow served for a decade Sullivan, Jim Walsh. as the Executive Director of the Northern Ireland Community Relations Council and WIP Patron’s Committee is widely respected in Northern Ireland when it comes to ethnopolitical conflict, Carol Wheeler, Co-Chair, Susan Davis, Co- peacebuilding, and community relations. Chair, Oakley Brooks, Manus Cooney, Jerry Duncan is a co-author of The Equity, Easom, Jerry Hogan, Joe & Lynne Horning, Diversity and Interdependence Framework Jim Kennedy, Ambassador James C. Kenny, that has been highly influential in shaping Anne Nolan, Peggy O’Beirne, Ron & Patti community relations work in Northern Rosenfeld, Ali and Mark Russell, Mary Anne Ireland. He has recently returned to his Sullivan, Mark Tuohey. Bryan Patten is WIP’s Executive Director, post as a Lecturer in the Department of primarily based out of our Dublin and Criminology, Politics, and Social Policy at Belfast offices. Prior to joining WIP, Bryan the University of Ulster, where he also serves was a founding member of the educational as the University’s Director of Community non-profit Suas, leading their work on Engagement. access to education in India and Kenya for 7 years. Bryan is an Alumnus of Trinity College Dublin, where he completed an Undergraduate in Technology and a Masters in Technology and Education. During his time in Trinity, Bryan started a joint initiative between Suas and TCD that has become a leading example of the use of technology to empower and engage – the Bridge21.
Pictured above: Kevin Sullivan addresses the Class of 2013 at their Graduation ceremony in Derry~Londonderry. Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 3 Washington Ireland Program
Claire Rumpsa Michael DuVall Farewell to Ellen Motley
The Washington Ireland Program was Based in our DC Office, Mike is responsible After almost four years of great service Ellen pleased to appoint Claire Rumpsa as its for WIP’s DC leadership programs. Mike has Motley, WIP’s Director of Operations, left new Director of Engagement, based in our a B.A. in Religious Studies from the College our team in early June to take up a position Washington, DC office. Originally from of Wooster and a Masters of Philosophy with the US’s largest Youth Development Northern Ireland, Claire has an LLB in from Trinity College’s in Dublin with a Organization 4-H. Outside of being a Law and Politics from Queen’s University focus on Philosophy, Conflict Resolution pleasure to work with, Ellen was a fantastic Belfast and an M.Sc. in Development and Reconciliation. Mike has spent 10 years asset for WIP - leading on The Celtic Chefs, Studies from University College Dublin. An working for various education and peace supporting our Host Family Community and Alumna of the WIP Class of 2004, and part building programs. significantly improving our organizational of WIP’s Management Team in 2005, she systems and processes. was also involved in co-founding our sister organization SAWIP. Prior to joining WIP’s DC team, Claire managed public health programs in rural Kenya.
University & Government Partners
WIP was supported by our University and Government Partners which included:
• the Department of Education and Skills, Ireland • Queen’s University Belfast • The Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister • University College Cork • the University of Liverpool • Trinity College Dublin • the Institutes of Technology, Ireland • University College Dublin • Dublin City University • the University of Ulster • NUI Galway • the University of Limerick • NUI Maynooth
Corporate and Non-Profit Partners
Accenture; The Ireland Funds, Verizon
4 / Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 Chapter 2: WIP Alum Community
The true impact of the Washington Ireland 2.2/ WIP Alum Leadership 2.3/ WIP Mentoring Scheme Program is seen every day in Northern Dinner Series Ireland and Ireland through the leadership, A new mentoring scheme, to support Alums service and actions of the WIP Alum A series of Leadership Dinners took place from across the years to connect and share Community. in Belfast and London throughout 2013. their skills and experiences was also launched The events were well attended by alum who in April 2013. The WIP Mentoring Scheme WIP’s aim is to develop, support and engage enjoyed off the record evenings with leaders helps connect Alums across years to coach, generations of leaders who are able to who have achieved significant achievements support and motivate each other. It was well forge mutually constructive and supportive in their chosen fields. Speakers included received by WIP Alum with over 50 alum relationships within and between all Joanne Stuart OBE, Gregory Burton, Anne signing-up to participate in the scheme. communities that will lead to a peaceful and Nolan, Johnny Ryan and Matthew Doyle. Feedback from alum who have received prosperous future for Ireland and Northern mentoring has been very positive, especially Ireland. Alum of WIP join a network of Each event started with an hour long from those who received tailored advice on leaders and influencers who support each facilitated conversation, followed by a dinner how to successfully enter a specific career area. other personally and professionally in with the special guest and WIP Alums. The endeavors that further WIP’s mission and Leadership Dinners provide an opportunity 2.4/ WIP Alum Website vision. for alum to learn, connect and socialize with an influential network of professional peers A new website dedicated to WIP Alum (alum. 2.1/ Launch of New and friends. These dinners fit with WIP’s wiprogram.org) was launched in July 2013. Alum Initiatives mission to create mutually constructive and It acts as an online hub for alum events and supportive relationships within and between news to help keep WIP alum connected In April 2013, Heather McCormick (WIP’08 communities. wherever they may be based. It has proved & Board Member) launched a new series of hugely popular with alum and had 9,787 views WIP Alum Leadership Dinners and an Alum and 2,999 visits in 2013. A series of WIP alum Mentoring Scheme at a special reception profiles proved especially popular allowing in the U.S. Embassy, Dublin. The reception alum to see what their peers and community was attended by over 100 WIP alum and was are achieving in their respective fields. WIP kindly hosted by the Mr. John Hennessey- Pictured above: Alum also share a vibrant Facebook page and Niland, Chargé d’affaires at the U.S. Embassy, WIP alum with Joanne Stewart OBE at Queen’s communicate regularly on Twitter via the @ Dublin. University Belfast at a WIP Leadership Dinner. WIPLive handle.
Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 5 WashingtonWIP Alumni IrelandCommunity Program
2.5/ President Obama Visits Belfast 2.6/ Remembering 2.7/ WIP Academy Martin Luther King Jr. WIP was privileged to receive formal thanks The WIP Class of 2013 received training for its support for President Obama’s visit WIP Alum gathered in August to remember from Accenture in August and September to Belfast in June 2013. Over 50 WIP Alum the words and work of Dr. Martin Luther in Belfast and Dublin on effective supported the event by volunteering at the King Jr. in the Great Hall of the Northern communications, application writing and Waterfront where President Obama delivered Ireland Assembly at Stormont on the 50th interview skills. As part of their service his keynote speech. During the speech Anniversary of his ‘I have a dream’ speech project, the WIP Class of 2013 returned to President Obama outlined the following during the march on Washington. The their respective universities and colleges challenge to young people in Northern event opened with a welcome from our where they ran free, public workshops for Ireland: host, Chris Lyttle MLA (WIP’02). Acting their peers in CV and application writing and US Consul General Gabrielle Moseley interview skills. In a climate of high youth “You must remind us of the existence of peace also welcomed guests, and highlighted the unemployment in Northern Ireland and — the possibility of peace. You have to remind ongoing importance of the words and works Ireland, there was a great response to these us of hope again and again and again. Despite of Dr. King. There then followed a short free training seminars. resistance, despite setbacks, despite hardship, documentary and a showing of Dr. King’s despite tragedy, you have to remind us of the speech. 2.8/ Alum Ball 2013 future again and again and again. The event closed with WIP Alum Jonny Over 100 alums returned to the Wellington I have confidence you will choose that path; Elliott and Lauren Brown responding to Park Hotel for the 2013 WIP Alum Ball in you will embrace that task. And to those who Dr. King’s request to ‘Let Freedom Ring’ – Belfast. This is a key date on the WIP social choose the path of peace, I promise you the by joining in an international ringing of a calendar. United States of America will support you bell. The event closed with a live screen of every step of the way. We will always be a wind President Obama’s remarks from the steps of 2.9/ Christmas Jumper Parties at your back. And as I said when I visited two the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC. years ago, I am convinced that this little island Our thanks to Chris Lyttle MLA, the US Three charity Christmas socials were that inspires the biggest of things — this little Consulate Belfast, all of the team at the NI organized for WIP alum in London, Belfast island, its best days are yet ahead.” Assembly and Politics Plus for their help and and Dublin. With alum wearing quirky
support in organizing this special event. Christmas jumpers, not only were the socials full of Christmas cheer, they were also an opportunity for WIP Alum to fundraise for Pictured above: charities close to their hearts. Funds were Alfred Abolarin (keynote speaker), Bryan Patten, Chris raised for the MS Society of Northern Ireland Lyttle, MLA (WIP’02) and Eva Grossman at Stormont and the Katie Piper Foundation. for the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial event. 6 / Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 In Focus: Alumni Impact
WIP’s diverse alum community continues to “I think the Washington Ireland Program years and that is part of what I do everyday. further WIP’s vision and mission through a has given many young people a brilliant So being put in those situations and learning wide variety of endeavors. opportunity to experience life outside of those skills has been really useful to me in my Northern Ireland. It gives people a good career so far. Martin Reilly understanding of how governments and Mayor of Derry-Londonderry systems of administration work in other “I guess for me the metric is always: what is places. We return home with a good concept the impact I want to have and what impact of best practice. The Washington Ireland can I have. It has never really been for me Program has given young people the about how much money can I make, where I confidence to say that they are capable of want to live, or the car I want to drive. What doing these jobs. You are able to believe in has always driven me is, how can I make a your own ability to lead. I think that is a difference, where is the best place, and how legacy of WIP.” can I use my skills to do that?”
Kathryn O’Shea Kathryn has followed this thread of service Change Nation, Ashoka throughout her life, getting involved initially in local social action in her hometown of Letterkenny, later volunteering in India with Suas, an educational NGO while at university and participating on the Washington Ireland Councillor Martin Reilly is a member Program. Cumulatively it has led her to a of the Derry-Londonderry City Council place in life where she now feels she has little and was Mayor of Derry-Londonderry in choice but to act. 2013 during the hugely successful City of Culture Celebrations. A graduate of Queen’s “After you have been exposed to the world, University Belfast, Martin had his first you turn around and don’t really have a taster of a busy political office while on choice anymore. I don’t think I would be the Washington Ireland Program in 1999, happy in a world that was just focused on interning with Congressman Jim Walsh, at making money. I have seen what you can do a potent time in Northern Ireland’s history. and how you can make a difference. Being The Good Friday/Belfast Agreement had just Kathryn O’Shea has been a long-term part of that world - it is a little bit infectious! been signed and there was a renewed surge of advocate for social change in Ireland, having interest in Northern Irish affairs. lead Change Nation with Ashoka Ireland, “Ireland has been through a huge period a program which imports solutions from of change. A lot of the structures and “Working in a very busy congressional office social entrepreneurs from across the world institutions that were once held very dear was a great eye opener as to what political into Ireland to address social problems. and were the building stones of society work was like. It was a really interesting Kathryn completed the Washington Ireland are changing- be it the church or financial experience and certainly one that cemented Program in 2007 when she was worked with a institutions. There is change happening and my interest in politics and my desire to get company called Video Action. With them she I really want to be part of that change. That involved in politics to an even bigger degree. helped to produce documentaries on issues of means making room for new thinking and social injustice. fresh ideas. A lot of trust across the board “Being part of WIP showed me that I enjoyed has been lost. But I think it opens up a huge working in a busy political office. When I “Going to work in Video Action and seeing period to really innovate, and decide, what returned home I was certain I wanted to how media could be used as a tool to is the country we want to be, how do we work for the new assembly and to stand impact social difference really opened up want to see ourselves, and what is the role in for election myself. I wanted to…make our my thinking and ways to address problems. Europe and in the world?” politics work better here. The lesson from I think you get a lot of skills through the the Washington Ireland Program for me Washington Ireland Program. It focuses is that you can make a difference through on developing you as a leader. It helps with politics; you just have to work closely with networking, when you were sent into a room colleagues in your own party and colleagues and then sent to every corner to introduce in other parties.” yourself! But fast forward seven or eight
Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 7 Adrian Margey “From a very young age I had a drive to Award winning painter create. It is something that has always been In Memoriam: there, it is something that I have tried to Diane Halley, 1979 – 2013 suppress but always comes out in the end. The arts are about making things happen, creating.
“I think I also want to project at positive image of Northern Ireland. I don’t want to be stuck in the past, you want to be forward looking and be progressive.
“The Washington-Ireland Program fills you with a certain self confidence and a self efficacy, to make things happen, and to change things that you are not happy Adrian Margey is one of Northern Ireland’s about, whether that be in your own life or brightest new artists, winning awards from in the world around you. By the end of the It is with much sadness that the the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Program you have a group of people who Washington Ireland Program learned hailed by the Belfast Telegraph as “one have a bond that transcends sectarian or of the untimely death of Diane (Dee) of the rising stars of a new generation political boundaries. Halley, (WIP’01) on Sunday 31st March, of Ulster artists”. Having secured an 2013. Writing at the time of Diane’s undergraduate degree with First Class “Experiences of the ‘can do’ attitude in tragic death, Kevin Sullivan, Chairman Honors in Communications, Advertising Washington have made their way into of the Washington Ireland Program and Marketing, and well on his way to a my academic path as well, exploring Board shared the following message: successful career in marketing, Adrian entrepreneurship and enterprise, which is so remembered some advice he received in DC prevalent in American culture. On behalf of the Board of the from journalist Mark Shields – “follow your Washington Ireland Program and her passion, not your pension”. “I don’t think we can be complacent in many WIP friends I would like to extend Northern Ireland. We have a lot of good our deepest sympathies to Dee’s family Leaving the stable career path behind, people here. We need to hold onto them and for her untimely and sudden passing on Adrian set up his own freelance artistic maybe bring a few people back as well. And Easter Sunday. Dee had many friends in practice with a vision of sharing his vision work hard to ensure that the peace we are Washington, Dublin, Belfast, Jerusalem, of a new Northern Ireland, bringing a new enjoying continues. I think Northern Ireland Ramallah, Prague and countless other perspective to familiar things through color has huge potential. Maybe we just don’t cities and nations. We share your loss. I and texture. Adrian has worked with Queen’s realize it often enough.” last saw her at WIP’s annual Fourth of University Belfast to develop an MA in July Party at the Lynch’s last year here Cultural Management, introducing this next in D.C.- a wonderful global collection generation of cultural leaders to the notion of of idealistic young people from Ireland, arts entrepreneurship. Adrian also regularly Northern Ireland, South Africa, the runs cross community arts workshops for Middle East and the United States. She school children in his community. talked with great realism yet hope about the work ahead in helping to build New Story Leadership (NSL). She was a young woman at the top of her game with a great sense of purpose and drive. Dee was a wonderful example of living the WIP ethos – go out and do your bit, have a vision and don’t wait around for someone else to make it happen. May she rest in peace.
8 / Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 Chapter 3: Class of 2013
3.1/ Recruitment & Selection · Long-standing commitment to WIP particularly welcomed applicants from: service. Students may have shown their commitment to others through sports, The 29 students selected for the WIP Class of · Students on full grant from university volunteer work, or have played an active 2013 represented 14 institutions from across or have all their fees based upon the role in a community project or service Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain. income of their parents; project; The WIP selection process has always been · Students who are first in their family tough - but with 525 applications in 2013, the · Experience of working collaboratively (excluding siblings) to attend university Class was selected from the most competitive in a team; or college; process in WIP history. · Willingness to face challenges and work · Students who received Education through them with perseverance and Maintenance Allowance (EMA) during In 2013, WIP looked for a diverse and commitment; the last two years of their secondary dynamic team of 29 students who we believed · Respect for diversity and a desire to school education (Northern Ireland); have the potential to make a difference and learn from the experiences of peers · Students who graduated from post- help write a better future for Ireland and from different backgrounds; primary schools supported through the Northern Ireland. We looked for individuals Delivering Equality of Opportunity in who would make great ambassadors for their · Dedication to personal and professional excellence. We looked for people who Schools (DEIS) Program (Republic of communities, and who showed potential Ireland); and and promise to make a difference both now would bring a responsible attitude to and in the future. Each student was valued the program, and couple it with a good · Students who are from a single parent for their unique perspective and potential, sense of humor, which will help carry family. the team through challenges; and while there is no ideal applicant, we looked for a range of characteristics and · Goal and results driven. We looked for The Class of 2013 was formally launched in competencies including: individuals who have demonstrated Washington D.C. by Dr. Malcolm McKibbin, achievements in either their personal or Head of the Civil Service in Northern Ireland · Demonstrated Leadership Potential. professional life, and who work hard to and Professor Brian MacCraith, the President Students may have taken a formal make positive results happen; and of Dublin City University. leadership role through their college · Born in Ireland or Northern Ireland, or work or extracurricular activities, or a citizen of Ireland or Northern Ireland, an informal role when leadership was or regard Ireland or Northern Ireland as needed amongst their friends, family or their home. Pictured above: community; The WIP Class of 2013.
Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 9 3.2/ Class of 2013
The WIP Class of 2013 was selected from a pool of 525 applicants through a rigorous selection process.
Bernard Aherne David Brooks University College Dublin Queens University Belfast Business and Law Modern History and Politics David is an active member of the DUP Bernard is an active member of Young and last year was Chair of the Party’s Fine Gael: he is currently National University Association. He has also been Secretary and previously held the position involved in the Students’ Union. Interested of secretary in UCD Young Fine Gael, in developing cross-community and cross- one of the organization’s strongest and border relations, David has been involved most active branches. He also sits on the in initiatives with the Glencree Centre Fine Gael Executive Council. He was a for Peace and Reconciliation. In 2010, representative for his class on the Law David was part of a team that won a Gold Consultative Forum in UCD. He has a Community Safety Award for work with keen interest in sports, such as hurling and homeless and vulnerable people in Belfast. rugby; and also plays golf and badminton. In his spare time David is also involved in several church-based outreach programs. Lyndsay Baker University College Dublin Lauren Brown Business and Chinese Queen’s University Belfast Lyndsay spent last year studying in Beijing Law with Politics and Shanghai, where she also interned Lauren is an active member of Queen’s at the Irish Chamber of Commerce, Christian Union, leading a weekly small Shanghai. On returning from China group for law students. She is involved in she co-founded Connect2, an initiative student politics and was elected to Queen’s focused on fostering a sense of community Student Union Council. Passionate about and mutual understanding between Irish social justice issues, Lauren volunteers and Chinese students in UCD. This year, with International Justice Mission and is she represented UCD in the Marshall a member of Stop the Traffik ACT group. International Case Study Competition in She has been involved in community University of Southern California. Lyndsay work and teams within Northern Ireland has raised over €4000 for the Irish Cancer as well as working alongside the Dutch Society. Foundation in Poland, providing aid to underprivileged children. Rory Beatty University of Liverpool Roisin Brown Politics & Communication Studies Queen’s University Belfast Rory volunteers with Refugee Action in MA International Relations Liverpool, endeavoring to help create a Roisin is actively involved in voluntary more inclusive society. He is also a Project youth work, where she leads a cross- Leader on the Liverpool Guild of Students’ community summer scheme. This, Roof Garden, a social and environmental alongside her role as a part-time career initiative at his university. Last summer, for elderly and disabled individuals, he lived and worked at a cultural heritage reflects a wide interest in advocating hostel in Slovenia where he taught English for marginalized groups in society. An to young children. He is a keen sailor and enthusiastic soccer player, Roisin worked aspires to pursue a career in diplomacy. as the administrator for Team Ireland at the New York Cosmos Tournament in 2012. She has recently submitted a PhD proposal addressing xenophobic attitudes in austerity Europe.
10 / Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 3.2/ Alumni/ae 2013
Maria Campbell Keara Downey National University of Ireland, Galway University of Ulster, Magee Legal Studies, Sociology and Politics Irish History & Politics Maria has been involved with Foróige, Keara is the chair of the Bernard O’Hagan Ireland’s largest youth organisation, as a Magee Sinn Féin Cumann as well as the member, volunteer leader and recently chair of Magee Friends of Palestine. She co-founder and Auditor of Foróige’s first is a Student Union Brand Ambassador college society. During this time she has and has sat on Campus Council for two lead a team to win two national citizenship consecutive years. She volunteers with awards and was selected for the inaugural an ex prisoner group Tar Abhaile and is Albert Schweitzer leadership program. recently back from Brussels representing Maria recently completed an internship in Sinn Féin at a Future Leaders conference. the UNESCO Child and Family Research Keara is secretary of the Magee ladies Centre based in NUIG, and has been GAA team and is a keen volunteer for accepted for a Masters in Human Rights service projects in her local community. Law in Queen’s University Belfast. Brian Fox Rosha Canavan University College Dublin Trinity College Dublin History, Politics and International Law and Political Science Relations Rosha is a qualified Speech and Drama Brian is currently the Captain of the teacher (ALCM TD) and a voluntary tutor. UCD Mountaineering Club, one of the In the summer of 2012 Rosha interned largest of its kind in Ireland. Brian has with the Minister for Agriculture for returned from a twelve-month internship Northern Ireland. She had the opportunity in Brussels with the consultancy firm, to accompany the Minister on a number Fleishman-Hillard, having worked on of public engagements which fuelled her EU financial services regulation. He has interest in cross-community relations and completed an Erasmus year in Sciences Northern Irish politics. In addition, she Po, Paris and has volunteered in post- took part in the first International Berlin earthquake Haiti with UCD Volunteers Model UN program which has added Overseas. Brian is also an active member to her interest in international conflict of the UCD Access Centre, which resolution. promotes access to third-level education regardless of socio-economic background Jack Cantillon or disability. Trinity College Dublin Law Adam Fulham Jack was named Trinity’s Individual of Institute of Technology, Tallaght Dublin the Year in 2012 for his work in student European Studies societies including his roles as founder of Adam has recently returned to ITTD the Horse Racing Society and Librarian of having completed an Erasmus year in the Law Society. Jack brought the Horse Oviedo, Spain. Adam is an active member Racing Society from inception to one of the Irish Reserve Defence Forces and of the largest societies in Trinity and it ITTD International Cultural Society and was named Trinity’s Best New Society was elected class representative of his in 2012. He is founder of the Spin 103.8 college course this year. He has previously Race Day, Dublin’s largest student event. served as chairperson of the ITTD Labour He has completed internships in the Party Society and was named Societies Environmental and Energy Cabinet of Person of the Year for his work done in Kentucky, the Curragh Racecourse and this position. Adam has travelled to Israel Darley Japan in Hokkaido. and the West Bank with Labour Youth and has a special interest in conflict resolution.
Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 11 Class of 2013 on Ireland Program
Jona Kalemi Séamus McCreesh Dublin City University University of Limerick International Relations Irish and New Media Speaking four languages, Jona has a keen Séamus has recently completed a six- interest in meeting and learning from month internship at a community centre people from different cultures. Jona has a that prolongs the school day for inner city passion for athletics, representing DCU children, in a fun and alternative way. He and Donore Harriers in middle distance is an active member of Sinn Féin and is races. She has recently taken up the Club currently chairperson of its youth division Development Officer role, where she is in Limerick City. He has a keen interest active both in coaching young runners and in the Irish language and volunteers each in fundraising. Jona recently participated week, helping secondary school students in the regional and national ‘Being Young with their Irish homework. Séamus also and Irish’ Initiative. She was also one of enjoys all sports and plays gaelic football the principal organizers of the first World and hurling for his local GAA club, Peace Festival in Ireland. Mungret/St. Pauls.
Helena Kelly Shauna McGuire Trinity College Dublin University College Dublin Law Politics and Sociology Helena is an active member of Ógra Shauna is an active member of UCD Fianna Fáil and at present sits on the Volunteers Overseas and in 2011 travelled committees of both her college and local to Delhi, India to assist with education branches, having served as chair of the projects. Shauna is passionate about social Trinity branch last year. She has also justice issues and recently completed the represented Fianna Fáil at the European Suas Global Issues course. She has been Liberal Youth Forum, Brussels. Helena involved with the UCD Tutoring Scheme, has debated at Model United Nations supporting students from disadvantaged conferences in Ireland, the UK and The areas in Dublin with their studies. Shauna Netherlands. Helena is a keen tag rugby has also taken part in various UCD player and takes part in running events to Shadowing Days which give prospective raise money for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. students an insight into University life. She She has a passion for Irish history and acts currently lives on campus as a Residential as a tour guide in Dublin. Assistant.
Sean Kennedy Emma McMahon Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Queen’s University Belfast Pharmacy LLB in Law Sean was awarded an All Ireland Emma is the Business Manager of the Scholarship in 2011. At college he tutors Queen’s Student Union magazine. She was local children as part of an outreach awarded an International Business and program and also participates in a “Buddy” Administration scholarship and spent system, mentoring first year students. a year at The College of Wooster, Ohio. He plays an active role in the community Passionate about integrated education in when he returns home to Clonmel, Northern Ireland, Emma is a volunteer coaching a junior soccer team and offering mentor with NewStart a Belfast-based motivation to pupils from his previous alternative education center. She has school as well as charity fundraising. a keen interest in current affairs and represented Queen’s at the Model United Nations Conference in New York in 2012.
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Jamie Moore Owen Murphy Computer Forensics Trinity College Dublin Waterford Institute of Technology Psychology Jamie is coordinator of Waterford County Owen is passionate about the development Comhairle na nÓg, Community and of mental health services in Ireland. He Voluntary Group of the Year 2012. Travel is involved in two new mental health awards with Comenius and EIL have initiatives: ‘ShoutOut’, an anti-homophobia enabled him to engage in intercultural workshop initiative, and ‘Home Away from learning initiatives in Norway and Hong Home’, a program which aims to tackle Kong. Jamie is actively involved with the isolation many first year University Dungarvan Scouts (Leader and PRO), students feel having moved away from Dungarvan and West Waterford Chamber home for the first time. He also has a keen of Commerce. He is passionate about passion for drama, having directed four Youth Empowerment, Mental Health and shows in DU Players & served on two IT. He is also fluent in Irish. committees of the Dublin Shakespeare Festival, and is a trained singer. Raymond Moran Dublin City University Gisele O’Connell Genetics and Cell Biology National University of Ireland Ray is a recipient of the Guinness Maynooth Politics Scholarship award, the Paddy Wright Gisele is the Chair of the Ogrà Sinn Fèin memorial scholarship, a bronze President’s Society in NUIM and Second Year Liaison award and an Edmund Rice award. He has Officer for the Economics and Finance been an active member of Scouting Ireland society. Passionate about increasing for 14 years. He has volunteered in a women’s political participation in politics, Romanian orphanage for the mentally and she is also involved with the ‘Women physically disabled with his local troop. He for Election’. She recently completed is a DCU Access student and has been a an internship in the Northern Ireland mentor to incoming Access students. He is Assembly and has also worked in Leinster a volunteer with Localise, where he works House, the Arklow Probation Service and in his old school to raise funds for the Wicklow County Council. Gisele is also Heart Foundation Ireland. a debater, a Soprano Choir singer and an Irish dancer. David Morrow University of Warwick Rachel Powell Politics and International Studies Queen’s University Belfast David is on his University’s Student Politics, Philosophy and Economics Council, was formerly PRO of the Rachel is an active member of the SDLP Warwick Debating Society and co-hosts and has been elected onto the National a radio show. He spent his third year Youth Executive as Equality Officer. She studying in Madrid, and has interned has a strong interest in Economics, being at the Financial Services Authority in a winning team member of the Bank London. David has a long track record of England Target 2.0 competition and of volunteering with the Corrymeela interned at UBS investment bank. She has Community in Ballycastle, and went to the represented her school, club and county first integrated school in Northern Ireland. at Camogie, Football and Cross-country, He enjoys playing sport, particularly winning several championships and All- football and tennis. Ireland titles.
Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 13 Class of 2013
Laura Power Adam Scott University College Cork University of Liverpool English and Politics Understanding Conflicts Laura is a mentor for the Suas Literacy Adam is a Masters student with the Irish Support Program and a member of UCC Studies Institute at Liverpool University, Feminist Society. Laura is the former Head having previously completed a degree Girl of Presentation Secondary School in Politics and Communication Studies. and has volunteered with the Edmund An active member of the University’s Rice Summer Camp’s for disadvantaged Drama Society and has been in several children. She has also spent time productions with them. He has been a volunteering in the Sue Ryder Foundation member of the Staff-Student Committee and fundraising for the Irish Heart in both his courses, and completed a term Foundation. Laura was a trainee sailor at the Charles University in Prague. Before during the Tall Ships Race 2010, sailing University he lived and studied in Zambia from Norway to England. for several years, as well as spending some time in New York. Peter Purcell University of Ulster, Jordanstown Robbie Stakelum Sports Studies University of Limerick Peter has interned at Smarts Law with Irish and Politics Communicate, one of Ireland’s leading Robbie is an active member of the Labour Integrated Communication consultancies. Party in Limerick, having been elected In 2010 he helped form the ‘Willpower’ both as secretary of his local branch and organization, raising money for UK as the constituency youth officer. Last year charities helping those that have been he was appointed Director of Elections for paralysed. Peter has filmed and produced a the party’s Children’s Rights Referendum number of videos for charity and sporting campaign in Limerick and completed organizations. He has represented Ulster an internship with Ireland’s Minister for and Ireland in hockey at underage level, Housing and Planning. Robbie also has captaining Ulster under 16s, under 21s and a passion for music and is a committed Ireland under 16s. His plans to do an MSc member of St Mary’s Fife and Drum Band in Integrated Communications. where he teaches music and serves of the band’s committee. Leanne Rutledge University of Ulster, Jordanstown Biomedical Engineering Leanne is Vice-Chair of the Democratic Unionist Party’s UUJ student body, and was an elected member of the Student Union Executive Committee for the term 2010/11. Leanne sits on the Young Democrats Pro-life Committee and has had research work on ‘Lean Manufacturing’ published on two occasions; however, her main passion lies with Cancer Research. Leanne is an advanced skier and is passionate about music and theatre holding professional qualifications in both piano and theatrical performance.
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3.3/ Summer Leadership Program 3.4/ Student Work Placements Lombardi Cancer Care Center, Georgetown University
The Class of 2013 participated in an WIP continued its track record of providing Natural Gas Supply Association extensive and challenging leadership a wide range of excellent work placement program. New aspects of this program opportunities: Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick included a retreat to Harper’s Ferry, Rep. Dan Kildee Virginia following the New York City trip. This addition to the program focused on Rep. Peter King building deeper relationships between the 2013 Work Placements class participants at a key juncture of the (in alphabetical order) Senator Tom Harkin summer program when trust has been Senator John McCain established. Achieve - National Education Advocacy Organization Senator Charles Schumer
American Chemistry Council Susan Davis International
Citizens for Tax Justice and the Institute The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun on Taxation & Economic Policy Violence
CRDF Global The Faith and Politics Institute
Department of Education The International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Dr. Lance Hoffman, School of Engineering & Applied Science The Embassy of Ireland
Eli Lilly The Library of Congress
Federal Network, Inc. (FedNet) – The Mohammed Said Farsi Chair of Pictured above: Political Media Broadcaster Islamic Peace, American University WIP Class of 2013 during the summer leadership program in Washington D.C. International Center for Missing and The Northern Ireland Bureau for North Exploited Children America
LiUNA (Laborers’ International Union U.S. Holocaust Museum of North America)
Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 15 3.5/ Summer Speakers
3.5/ Summer Speakers Susie Hoffman Dan Riordan Partner, Crowell & Moring CEO, Zurich Global Corporate
North America Each summer, WIP brings leaders from Norman Houston a wider variety of sectors to give master Director, Northern Ireland Bureau Dr. Andrew Sanders classes to our young leaders from Ireland and for North America John Moore Newman Fellow, Clinton
Northern Ireland. Institute for American Studies at University Adrian Jones College Dublin Managing Director, Goldman Sachs Ambassador Anne Anderson Mark Shields Irish Ambassador to UN Katherine Marshall Syndicated Columnist & PBS NewsHour President Jim Boland Senior Fellow, Berkley Center for Religion Peace and World Affairs Mark Strand President, International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers President, The Congressional Institute BR McConnon CEO, DDC Advocacy Jake Sullivan Jake Brody National Security Advisor to Vice President Managing Director, Accenture Walter McCormick Biden President & CEO, US Telecom Association Susan Brophy Kevin Sullivan Managing Director, The Glover Park Group Michael O’Neil Chair of the WIP Board Special Assistant to President Obama Jim Carroll Hon. James T. Walsh Managing Director, Accenture Kyle O’Connor Government Affairs Counselor, K&L Gates Deputy Speechwriter, White House Lucinda Creighton Chris Warner TD and Former Minister for Europe Niall O’Dowd Warner Financial Inc. Founder, Irish Central E.J. Dionne Tom Wheeler Senior Fellow, Brookings Institute Jennifer O’Malley Dillon Nominee Chair, Federal Communications Partner, Precision Strategies Craig Gordon Commission
Editor-in-Chief, Politico Terry O’Sullivan Patrick Wilson President, Laborers International Union of Jessica Grounds Director of Government Affairs, North America Executive Director, Running Start SemiConductor Industry Association
Bill Pitts Neil Henderson Tom Wright Lifepieces to Masterpieces Economics Editor, Wall Street Journal Fellow, Brookings Institute Elizabeth Pugh General Counsel, Library of Congress Pictured above: WIP Class of 2013 with Jim Carroll, Managing Director at Accenture.
16 / Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 3.5/ WIP Papers 3.6/ Graduation Owen McMeel (WIP’11) In the Great Hall at the University of Ulster The WIP Class of 2013 graduated with Owen was rewarded (Magee), members of the Class of 2013 Martin Reilly, the Mayor of Derry (WIP with the Queens presented their WIP papers to a group of Alum 1999), and Kevin Sullivan, Chair University Belfast politicians and practitioners for discussion of the WIP board, presenting them with Student of the Year and debate. The papers focused on the their certificates at the University of Ulster award in 2011 upon under-representation of minority groups in Magee’s Great Hall. The event concluded with his return to Belfast the political sphere; mental health in young the annual valedictorian speech by David from DC. Owen people during the transition to University/ Morrow followed by a walk across the new works for Newry College; and the creation of a body to “Peace Bridge” to the Walled City Tattoo. company First monitor and evaluate the positive impact of Derivatives and is now seconded to Russian sport in reconciliation. Several boards members, friends of the Investment Bank, VTB Capital in London. program, many of the students’ parents and The event was opened and chaired by the even two host families from Washington D.C. Reverend David Latimer and responses joined the Class for the celebration. Stephen Kennedy to the papers were given from politicians A graduate of Trinity including Mark Durkan MP, Basil McCrea 3.7/ Class of 2013 Management Team College Dublin, MLA, Gregory Campbell MLA and Martina Stephen was awarded Anderson MEP. There were also responses Emily O’Brien the Dean of Students’ from leaders in the non-profit sector (WIP’09) Role of Honor. including Trevor Ringland, former player for A graduate of Stephen is now a the British & Irish Lions and Board Member the University of trainee solicitor in of PeacePlayers, Mirjam Bader of Mindwise Limerick and Dublin London with Sidley and Denise McCarthy of the Union of City University Austin LLP. Students, Ireland. Emily has earned degrees in Law, European Studies and International Pictured above: Relations. She has Bill Nolan, Peter Sheridan, Prof. Deirdre Heenan, worked as a team lead with Citi providing Gregory Campbell MLA and Bryan Patten pictured due diligence for fourteen African countries. at the presentation of the WIP 2013 Papers.
Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 17 Chapter 4: Key WIP Activities & Events in 2013
4.1 / Overview
January Recruitment for the Class of 2013 - 525 applications received Candidates called for interview
February Candidates selected for WIP Class of 2013 Selection of Management Team for Class of 2013
March WIP joined the Ireland Day discussions at the New York Stock Exchange Launch of Class of 2013 in Washington D.C. with Dr. Malcolm McKibbin and Professor Brian MacCraith
April New Alum initiatives launched at the American Embassy in Dublin with over 100 alumni attending. Orientation of WIP class at Clinton Institute at Dublin City University. US Celtic Chef event
May Host family orientation held in Washington, D.C.
June WIP Alumni volunteered at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast where President Obama delivered his keynote speech. Launch of the WIP Class in Washington D.C. by Michael Collins, Ambassador of Ireland
July Congressional Forum US Celtic Cup Tournament
August Farewell reception hosted by the Northern Ireland Bureau 50 Years On: Remembering Dr. King’s Dream at the Northern Ireland Assembly Launch of WIP Papers & Graduation of the WIP Class of 2013 in Derry/Londonderry
Traditional Irish Music Sensation We Banjo 3 played a benefit gig in Washington, DC in aid of WIP. September Accenture Business Classes for the WIP Class of 2013 in preparation for the WIP Academy WIP Alum Leadership Dinner with Dr. Jonny Ryan of the Irish Times in Dublin.
October WIP Alumni Ball in Belfast Launch of recruitment process for WIP Class of 2014
November “Ireland Overheard” – a WIP literary evening co-hosted with Ambassador Anne Anderson at the Embassy of Ireland in Washington DC featuring Alice McDermott and Martin Dyar. Reception co-hosted with Northern Ireland Bureau to welcome Roger Downer, President Emeritus to Washington, D.C.
December WIP Alumni Leadership Dinner with Gregory Burton, US Consul General in Belfast. WIP Alumni Christmas Jumper Parties in Dublin, Belfast and London Candidates called for interview for Class of 2014
18 / Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 An Evening with Celtic Chefs
An Evening with Celtic Chefs Executive Chefs (Patrons) The Celtic Cup John Buscher and Anna Bowman The Washington Ireland Program’s fourth The 8th Annual Celtic Cup took place at Lake Evening with Celtic Chefs’ event was a Frank and Anne Cantrel Presidential Golf Club led by Frank Cantrel wonderful evening filled with delicious Jim and Mary Beth Carroll Jr. and his committee. The tournament raised food and traditional music. More than 250 over $45,000 dollars. Supporters included guests enjoyed sumptuous dishes prepared DDC Advocacy Verizon, MPAA and Alston & Bird to name by some of Washington’s best chefs at the Diageo just a few. This event allowed sponsors and Fairfax at Embassy Row Hotel. Distinguished Nell Henderson and Kevin Sullivan supporters to meet each other and discuss the chefs ranged from Tracy O’Grady (Willow program, enjoy the beautiful course and cater Restaurant) and Geoff Tracy (Chef Geoff’s Terry O’Sullivan, President LIUNA to their competitive side. In between holes, and LIA). Chef Conor Gadd (WIP’04) Anne and Mark Shields our supporters had a chance to meet with represented both the WIP Alum community WIP students and attend a silent auction Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America and Trullo Restaurant in London.
Chefs d’ Partie (Sponsors) The Northern Irish Celtic Cup Master of Ceremonies Richard Downes, welcomed guests as our Celebrity Sous Chefs Ambassador Elizabeth Frawley Bagley The 5th Annual Celtic Cup took place at donned their aprons and shared hors d’ourves Tom Downs the Malone Golf Club in Belfast in August. with guests. Our Celebrity Sous Chefs The Malone Golf Club is one of Northern Brendan Doyle and Larry Kirkland included Ambassador Michael Collins, Mark Ireland’s top ranked parkland golf courses. It Shields, Alice McDermott, E.J. Dionne, Cong. Kerrygold Cheeses and Butters from Ireland was a fantastic competition, which allowed Carolyn McCarthy and Mike McCurry to Marie and Kevin Moran supporters and alum of WIP to show off their name just a few. golf skills and to connect and compete with Northern Ireland Bureau one another. A particular word of thanks to our TTR Sotheby’s International Realty supporters: Mark H. Tuohey Chefs de Cuisine (Benefactors) Jim and DeDe Walsh
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage The Corcoran Family Foundation Pictured above: Carol and Tom Wheeler Stella O’Leary, George Moore and Joyce Flynn at An Evening with Celtic Chefs.
Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 19 Washington Ireland Program
New York Trip Northern Ireland Bureau Ireland Overheard Farewell Reception In 2013, the Class took a short trip to New York City. Highlights of the trip included a visit to the New York Stock Exchange, a visit to the 9/11 and Famine Memorials, as well as meeting senior managers at Goldman Sachs. Discussions were also held with Niall O’Dowd, founder of Irish Central.com. Thank you to Glucksman Ireland House at NYU for hosting the meetings.
WIP friends and supporters had a real Director of The Northern Ireland Bureau, transatlantic literary treat when acclaimed Norman Houston, hosted a farewell reception Irish American author Alice McDermott and for the WIP Class of 2013 during the last Irish poet Martin Dyar did a reading at the week of their time in Washington D.C. Embassy of Ireland in November. This was WIP’13 student Roisin Brown spoke about WIP’s first event with the new Ambassador her renewed enthusiasm and drive to return from Ireland to the US, Ambassador Anne home to Northern Ireland and make a Anderson. positive difference in her community. WIP was honored to have several Board members Pictured above: and special guests in attendance. We Banjo 3 pictured with Kristin Leary, Rep. Joe Crowley, Rep. Joe Kennedy III and Claire Rumpsa on Capitol Hill. We Banjo 3 Pictured: Norman Houston, Director of the Northern Ireland Irish folk and bluegrass sensation, We Banjo Bureau in conversation with Sarah Mathews and Adam 3, played a benefit gig for WIP in DC in Scott at the NI Bureau Farewell Reception. September. They took time out of their Pictured: schedule to give a private concert to Alice McDermott, Martin Dyar and Ambassador Anne Representatives Joe Crowley and Joe Anderson at the Ireland Overheard Reception. Kennedy III.
20 / Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 Chapter 5: Host Families
WIP has grown from strength to strength host parents was one of the most fulfilling Northern Ireland to embrace peace and over the past 19 years. Central to the success experiences of our lives. collaboration, is in of itself a rewarding of WIP has been the incredible generosity opportunity. Additionally, we’ve created such and hospitality of host families who open up We learned quickly that students are far more strong bonds beyond friendship, with not their homes to WIP students every summer. than guests - they become part of the family. only with the incredible WIP students but This gives the students the opportunity to While they only stay with us for 8 weeks, the also with the management team and other become part of an American family and bonds we made will surely last a lifetime. host families. We treasure those bonds and allows them to immerse themselves in Being a WIP Host parent is a true cross- therefore look forward to future WIP classes American culture. The bonds between WIP cultural experience. We get to learn first hand and the bonds that will inevitably yield. students and their host families are deep and about the issues facing Ireland and Northern long lasting. Here are testimonials from two Ireland, and in turn we get to play tourist in I can’t emphasize this enough to all who ask host families: the city we love.” about WIP. We find ourselves enthusiastically encouraging others to host. Who can blame Sarah Mathews & Dave O’Donnell: Leslie Weiner-Leandro & José Leandro: us when we’re presented with the opportunity to welcome such high caliber, dynamic young “In 2013, we took the leap from being “Hosting WIP students remains the greatest achievers who not only bring a great example workplace supervisors to become host accidental find for us. We were contacted for work ethic to our children but also offer parents. After interacting with several last minute when we were requested to host cultural exchange couched in a life-lasting Washington Ireland Program participants a family, but it just seemed right from the bond, well I just get energized for WIP, just and learning more about the program start. We strongly aligned with the concept thinking about it!” and students, the decision to become host and values of WIP. Anyway we can help to parents was an easy one. Our first year as cultivate the future leaders of Ireland and
Pictured above: WIP Host Families Terry Eason, Joyce Schwartz and Kurt Moses in conversation with Bryan Patten.
Washington Ireland Program / Annual Report 2013 / 21 620 F Street, NW Suite 747 Washington DC 20004; USA
C/O The Office of Student Life The Hub Dublin City University Dublin 9 Ireland
C/O Research and Enterprise Lanyon North Queen’s University Belfast BT7 1NN Northern Ireland