Age 34 Place of Birth Ballinasloe, Co. Galway Where you live Manhattan First Job Shop and post office clerk What it taught me I was 13 and wanted to go to Paris on the school tour. My parents told me if I could pay for it I could go. I got a job in the local shop and post office ... and went to Paris. Three things people would be surprised to know about me: 1. I'm very shy, which is unfortunately often mistaken for being aloof. 2. I still send hand written letters. 3. I believe it's better to give than receive. Best advice you could give someone starting out Stay true to yourself - even if you're concerned you're different, don't worry about it, we're all unique -- and don't ever forget where you've come from.
Aoife Elizabeth Butler is honoured and most grateful to receive this award and be considered among such distinguished individuals. She is the eldest daughter of John and Evelyn Butler, and has three siblings: Martin, Noeleen, and Kenneth. She was educated at St. Joseph's College, Athlone before receiving a scholarship through Elan Corporation and Marlin Capital to attend high school in Chicago. Butler returned to Trinity College Dublin for her chemistry degree; and between that and reading for her law degree from the University of London volunteered her time in a hospital in Uganda, and worked researching potential cancer drugs. Upon graduation, she moved to Chicago, where she was afforded opportunities with Baker & McKenzie, LLP and Welsh & Katz, Ltd. that facilitated her growth to her current position. While in Chicago Aoife was involved with the Ireland Network Chicago, the American Ireland Fund, and the Young Irish Fellowship. She also volunteered for Concern and the Chicago Lights tutoring program. In 2007, Butler moved from Chicago to New York to further her career. With Paul Hastings she represents pharmaceutical companies as they seek to protect and assert their patent rights; and in a pro bono capacity represents children seeking an education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Outside the office she is a member of the Trinity College Dublin Alumni committee and chairs their mentoring program. She also serves on the committee of the Irish Network New York City; and is the newly elected inaugural President of the Irish Network USA. She is also a member of the American Ireland Fund and the Irish Arts Center.
