Fifth Class of George J. Mitchell Scholars Arrive in Ireland

September 27, 2004

The fifth class of George J. Mitchell Scholars recently arrived in Ireland to begin a year of graduate study. The year was kicked off with a reception at the Guinness Storehouse Gravity Bar -- generously hosted by Diageo Ireland. US Ambassador James Kenny spoke to the Scholars about their roles as ambassadors for the United States. While noting the opposition of many in Ireland to the war in Iraq, he noted the far greater number of things on which the US and Ireland agree. He encouraged the Scholars to listen, learn and to be good ambassadors for the United States during their year in Ireland. Trina Vargo, President of the US-Ireland Alliance, introduced Ambassador Kenny, and made mention of the great reviews he is getting as Ambassador in Ireland. Guests included about 100 people in the fields of business, politics, journalism, education, and law.

The following day, the Scholars had an introduction to Irish history with a tour of Kilmainham Jail in Dublin. A visit to the Writers Museum educated the Scholars on Ireland’s rich literary heritage. The group also attended a preview performance at the Gate of Irish playwright Conor McPherson’s new play, Shining City.

Scholars learned about the Famine and the history of Irish immigration at Strokestown Famine Museum. After spending the night at the peaceful and cozy Wineport Lodge, the group took a three-hour cruise on the Shannon River, arriving at the Clonmacnoise monastic settlement, where they learned about religious Ireland between the 9th and 15th centuries.

The George J. Mitchell Scholarship program is generously supported by The Government of Ireland, the US Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, The Northern Ireland Department for Employment and Learning, Automsoft, BD (Becton, Dickinson & Company), Bombardier Aerospace (NI) Foundation, Cross Atlantic Capital Partners, The Crucible Corporation, and the McDonnell Charitable Foundation. Additional corporate sponsors of the Alliance include. CRH, Iona Technologies and the Jurys Doyle Hotel Group.