Grace Gardiner
Where do you live? Boston, MA.
Current company and position? As Development Officer at the Irish American Partnership, I connect people with the places and programs in Ireland that are most meaningful to them. I spend much of my time sharing IAP’s mission with our vibrant young professional network.
First job and what it taught me? First job: babysitting. Lesson: I love working with kids! First real job: interning for a Senator in the Irish Seanad. Lesson: Everyone has a story. During the lead-up to the 2020 election in Ireland, I spent long hours canvassing in north Dublin, knocking on hundreds of doors and speaking with countless families. Behind every door was a different story, set of concerns, and vision for the future. This experience deepened my understanding of empathy and the importance of listening, skills I strive to bring with me in all aspects of my personal and professional life.
How do you embrace your Irish heritage? I’m lucky to spend every day embracing my Irish heritage through the work of the Irish American Partnership. Since moving to Boston, I’ve been fortunate to be part of a dynamic community of Irish and Irish Americans, and serve on the Board of Irish Network Boston. I visit friends and family in Ireland often and especially love my grandparents’ home counties of Mayo and Sligo.
Something people would be surprised to know about me... I’ve lived in 5 US states and 3 countries.
Biography: Grace Gardiner serves as Development Officer at the Irish American Partnership, an educational nonprofit connecting Irish students, schools, and organizations with supporters who want to make a difference. Having studied and lived in the US, Belgium, and Ireland, Grace is passionate about helping people stay connected with the places and communities that are meaningful to them. She holds a BA in History and Political Science from Trinity College Dublin and spent a year studying abroad at the University of Notre Dame. Grace also serves on the Board of Irish Network Boston.
