Brigid Gurry
Where do you live? Euclid, Ohio.
Current company and position? I currently work at STERIS as a Technical Writer.
First job and what it taught me? My first job as a camp counselor at a Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) day camp was an unforgettable adventure! I spent my days leading spirited games, crafting imaginative art projects, and exploring the great outdoors with enthusiastic campers. This experience taught me the art of patience, the value of clear communication, and the joy of teamwork. I learned to think on my feet, adapt to ever-changing situations, and create a fun, inclusive environment for all. Most importantly, it instilled in me a passion for mentoring and a deep appreciation for the boundless energy and creativity that children bring to the world.
How do you embrace your Irish heritage? Embracing my Irish heritage has been a joyful journey, rooted in family, community, and tradition. My mom, Mary Jo, was a charter member of the Irish American Club East Side, and her deep love for our culture inspired me from the very beginning. Today, I’m proud to carry that torch as President of the Padraic Pearse Center. One of my favorite projects is managing the Lonnie McCauley Library, a treasure trove of over 1,000 books celebrating all things Irish. This year, we launched Stories and Signatures: The Padraic Pearse Center Speaker Series, where we bring Irish authors like Michael C. Mentel and local legends such as Sr. Maureen Burke to Cleveland for engaging and lively discussions.
During my time as Membership Secretary and Member at Large throughout my 30s, I cherished connecting with the members of the Irish American Club East Side. Whether someone has been with us since the club’s founding in 1978 or just walked through the doors, their stories, histories, and roots are part of what make our community so vibrant. Hearing those personal connections is something I still treasure today.
Serving as a Delegate to the United Irish Societies of Greater Cleveland has given me a new appreciation for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Being part of a 183-year tradition—one that means so much to our city—feels like I’m walking hand-in-hand with history.
And finally, being a Hibernian alongside my mom and aunt has been especially meaningful. It’s here I feel like I’m getting the true Irish experience—cultural through the Padraic Pearse Center, social through the Irish American Club East Side, and spiritual through the LAOH (Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians). It’s a perfect blend of what it means to celebrate and honor my heritage, every single day.
Something people would be surprised to know about me... Here's something that might surprise you about me: I'm a trivia host! Alongside my Telecommunications degree, I earned a minor in Popular Culture from Bowling Green State University, which has been incredibly handy. I love using my passion for random facts—from movies to the quirkiest state laws—to break the ice and bring people together.
Hosting trivia nights is a fantastic way to engage with the community and share my love for all things pop culture. It's always a joy to see participants' faces light up when they know the answers, and it creates a lively, interactive atmosphere that everyone enjoys.
Biography: Brigid Gurry, a Cleveland native, is a passionate advocate for Irish culture. She serves as President of the Padraic Pearse Center, dedicated to promoting Irish heritage. A 2008 graduate of Bowling Green State University and member of Sigma Kappa Sorority, Brigid has held leadership roles, including Membership Secretary of the Irish American Club East Side and Delegate to the United Irish Societies of Greater Cleveland. Additionally, she is a member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 11 Deirfiúr of Charity. Her dedication to preserving and celebrating Irish traditions has made her a respected figure in Cleveland's Irish-American community.
