Mitchell Scholars Visit Belfast

July 10, 2004

Mitchell Scholars, Trina Vargo, Dr. Alan Gillespie and Senator George Mitchell

In July, the Mitchell Scholars gathered together in Belfast for a final time. They were treated to a tour of Bombardier's plant where they learned first hand about aircraft manufacturing - and from no better tour guides than Chairman Sir George Quigley, and CEO Michael Ryan. Bombardier annually sponsors the Mitchell Scholarships and the company's commitment to the program is greatly appreciated.

That evening, the Mitchell Scholars and Senator George Mitchell met at the Ulster Bank headquarters where they were generously hosted by Dr. Alan Gillespie. The Scholars greatly enjoyed the two-hour opportunity to ask the Senator anything on topics ranging from his role in Northern Ireland, to his present position as Chairman of Disney, to his career in the Senate, to his view on current world affairs. The Alliance is extremely grateful for Senator Mitchell's commitment to the scholarship that bears his name. Following the session with Senator Mitchell, Dr Gillespie hosted a dinner to introduce the Scholars to business leaders in Belfast. Joining the group were Sir George Quigley, Terry Cross of Delta Print and Packaging, Eric Cairns of The Eric Cairns Partnership, and John West, the Director of Manufacturing for the Ulster Bank. This opportunity for the Scholars to learn from the Senator's life experience and hear about the important community service projects which these business leaders make time for in their busy lives, serve to inspire and renew the Scholars' own commitment to service.

In hosting the scholars Dr. Gillespie said," As a leading financial services organization operating throughout the island of Ireland, Ulster Bank Group is proud and privileged to welcome Senator Mitchell and the Mitchell Scholars. It was George Mitchell's vision that inspired the concept of the Mitchell Scholarship and the program has proved to be very successful since its inauguration in 1998. It is a unique experience for these outstanding young people. They will leave Ireland having built relationships and friendships which should last throughout their future careers and sustain the enduring links between the United States and the island of Ireland."