Irene Horgan, TCRG, ADCRG, Ph.D.
Profession and company: Director: Horgan Academy of Irish Dance and Author: "Celtic Connecticut Connections"
How do you celebrate your Irishness? I celebrate my Irishness by sharing Irish arts and culture with the next generation through Irish Dance education.
Name a hero you admire and why? The hero I admire is someone who was born of Irish immigrants and at the age of 16 lost her father who was born in Co. Kerry and raised in Co. Cork. Her hard-working mother was from Co. Leitrim. This hero of mine knew she had to accelerate her education in order to help her family during this difficult time. Her Mom encouraged her to love education. She graduated high school in three years, went on to college earning B.S., M.A., and J.D. degrees in the United States and a Ph.D. from the University College Galway, all by the age of 26. She has dedicated her life to helping others in need and promoting Irish culture. She is an inspiring advocate and role model. I am humbled to call her my sister. My hero is Attorney Maureen Horgan.
Something people would be surprised to know about me... I am the author of an award-winning Best-seller book entitled "Celtic Connecticut Connections" about Irish Traditional Dance between 1796 and 1921 with perspectives in history, culture, immigration, religion and academia.
Biography: Irene Horgan is the daughter of the late Maura (Gill) Horgan of Co. Leitrim and Jeremiah Horgan of Co. Kerry. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Limerick, Ireland. Dr. Horgan has lectured as Adjunct Professor at Post University. She is a certified Irish dance teacher (TCRG) and adjudicator (ADCRG), and Director of Connecticut's Horgan Academy of Irish Dance. Irene will serve as Chairperson of the 30th annual Constitution State Feis at Quassy Amusement & Waterpark in Connecticut on August 30th. She is the award-winning author of a Best Seller book entitled "Celtic Connecticut Connections".
