In a quiet unassuming way, people from Western Pennsylvania have taken practical and dramatic steps to contribute to the political, economic and social stability of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Ordinary people with extraordinary confidence and hope have come together to form a productive, effective, and respected organization to address issues ranging from conflict resolution to economic development to strategic alliances. The Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh was established in 1989 by Sister Michele O’Leary, Dr. Mel Madden, Daniel M. Rooney (Pittsburgh Steelers) and Dr. Anthony J. O’Reilly (Heinz Corporation). The Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh’s mission is to promote mutual understanding of the Catholic and Protestant traditions in Northern Ireland and economic development throughout all of Ireland. The Institute fulfills its mission by providing quality programs in job training, economic development, leadership development, educational alliances and reconciliation. The Institute is a change-oriented organization that collaborates with industry, educational and government institutions in the development of all programs.
