The Annual Gala at the American Irish Historical Society honored the vice chairman of the board, Tom Higgins, and astronaut Captain Scott Kelly, who received the Award of Courage, at its Annual Gala on Wednesday evening.
The Board, headed by Chairman James Normile, hosted the Gala in the beautiful AIHS mansion at 991 5th Avenue, and attendees were invited into the antique kitchen for cocktails before making their way to the grand salon for dinner.
The AIHS Gala was attended by the Irish Consul General, Helena Nolan, and the Northern Irish Envoy, Richard Cushnie, as well as representatives from New York businesses, local elected representatives, and members of the Irish American community.
The mission of the Society to share the history and culture of the Irish in America, was referenced by the Executive Director of the AIHS, Dr Elizabeth Stack, in her address. She reiterated the importance of all immigrants as an entrepreneurial class, and the vital role Irish communities played in establishing American cities and cultural centers. She also stressed the importance of the Society as a place for public education and outreach, where all stories are welcome; “The Society is about more than simply preserving the past; in sharing our story, we learn about context and see patterns that every immigrant group goes through.”
Tom Higgins, the grandson of Irish immigrants, said he has grown “over the years to understand the struggle, hard work, and achievement of my ancestors,” and reminded the attendees that that story is a universal experience.
Captain Scott Kelly, whose roots are in Waterford and Dublin, spoke about his experience as an astronaut, crediting the “leadership, discipline and focus” he learned at NASA for his success; “For a guy that graduated at the bottom half of my class to being able to go to NASA and become an astronaut with the help of New York Maritime was a really incredible opportunity for me”. Captain Kelly credited his Irish roots for instilling in him an appreciation for the value of civil service.
The American Irish Historical Society will host the Irish Repertory Theater’s production of The Dead, 1904 later this month, but will continue to hold online talks. Check the website www.aihsny.org
