Irish Ambassador Bids Farewell to WIP Class of 2025 at Special Reception

On the evening of Thursday July 24th, Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason welcomed friends and supporters of the Washington Ireland Program to her Residence for a special Reception to bid farewell to the WIP Class of 2025.  

This is always a special moment in the WIP calendar where students have the opportunity to reflect on their time in Washington DC while also expressing gratitude to the people who have invested in them.  

Guests included Congresswoman Val Hoyle, WIP Board Members, the host family community, work placements, speakers, service partners, and financial supporters. Together this unique ecosystem of support underpins the transformational journey that WIP students experience during their time in the US. 

Ambassador Byrne Nason thanked guests for their ongoing support for the Washington Ireland Program and remarked that it is a huge asset to have these young ambassadors creating connections and being the embodiment of the energy, optimism and potential of Ireland and Northern Ireland's young leaders. 

Romey Farrelly represented the WIP Class of 2025 during the short speaking program and reflected on experience this summer. “One moment that really stuck with me was when Norah Patten, Ireland’s first astronaut, spoke to us in our first week. She said, “I carry many people’s hopes and dreams, and with that, I don’t feel lonely.” That’s exactly how I’ve felt this summer. I’ve carried the hopes of my community, my family, and even my younger self. Anytime I have felt alone, I have thought of that." 

WIP Board Member Ben English (WIP 2012) said, "The students', for their journey, it ends in DC, but it's really just beginning. Their impact has reached one stage, but as they join the alumni community of over 1,000 people, which includes the former Taoiseach and many other exceptional leaders, it's about what impact they'll leave next. I hope you'll join me in cheering them on." 

The Washington Ireland Program is grateful to the Embassy of Ireland for hosting such a special event and for the generous support that the Irish government provides WIP through the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. WIP is also fortunate to have support from the Northern Irish Executive through the Northern Ireland Bureau for North America.