The Washington Ireland Program (WIP) proudly announced the Class of 2025 at a special event overlooking Capitol Hill on Wednesday, March 12th. The event, co-hosted by WIP and Ulster University, brought together distinguished guests, supporters, and alumni to celebrate the next generation of leaders dedicated to peace and reconciliation.

A highlight of the event was the recognition of WIP Founder Carol Wheeler, who was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate from Ulster University in recognition of her outstanding contributions to peace and reconciliation. The award, ‘Doctor of the University,’ is the highest accolade Ulster University can bestow and acknowledges Carol’s tireless work in fostering leadership and cross-community understanding over the past three decades. Ulster University, recently named the UK and Ireland University of the Year (Times Higher Education 2024), continues to be a key partner in WIP’s mission.

Now in its thirty-first year, the Washington Ireland Program welcomes its 2025 cohort—an inspiring group of emerging leaders who have already demonstrated exceptional leadership potential, a strong record of service, and a deep commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous future for the island of Ireland. Notably, nearly half of this year’s class come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and will receive full scholarships to participate in the program, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of leadership development.

Members of Congress Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick and Rep. Richard Neal, both steadfast supporters of WIP, reflected on their commitment to fostering international leadership and the enduring friendship between Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the United States. Their support underscores the vital role of transatlantic relationships in shaping a future built on collaboration, understanding, and shared values. We were delighted to have WIP Alumni, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly (Class of 2002), Nuala McAllister MLA (Class of 2010) and Lisa Basquel (Class of 2024) as speakers at this event.

As the Class of 2025 embarks on this transformative journey, WIP remains dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders who will continue to drive positive change at home and abroad.

 Rep. Fitzpatrick (PA-1) said at the announcement: 

“It is a great honor to announce the incoming class of Washington Ireland Program Emerging Leaders. For many years, my office has had the pleasure of hosting WIP students, and it is inspiring to see so many of them go on to serve with distinction in public life. The United States has always been a steadfast partner of peace and progress in Northern Ireland and Ireland, and I applaud the Washington Ireland Program for its commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders who will carry this legacy forward and shape a brighter future for all.” 

Rep. Neal (MA-1) added: 

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Friends of Ireland Caucus, I recognize the unique space occupied by the Washington Ireland Program. Fostering reconciliation and collaboration across political divides, WIP invests in the next generation of young leaders committed to achieving peace and prosperity on the island of Ireland. Congratulations to WIP Founder Carol Wheeler on her Honorary Doctorate from Ulster University. It is a fitting tribute to her outstanding commitment to peace and reconciliation.” 

Carol Wheeler said:  

“It is an incredible privilege to accept this honorary doctorate in recognition of the Washington Ireland Program’s journey over the past 31 years. What began as a small initiative to foster peace and reconciliation has now grown into an impactful network of over one thousand alumni who are shaping the future of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The honor I have received is not just a reflection of the work of one individual, but of the support and dedication shown by our staff and volunteers, our work placements, host families, donors, governmental supporters, and — most importantly — our program participants who have helped build and shape WIP throughout its history.” 

Ulster University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Bartholomew, said:  

“Dr. Carol Wheeler’s dedication to leadership development and civic engagement has had a profound and lasting impact on young people from Northern Ireland and Ireland.  Through the Washington-Ireland Program, she has provided opportunities that empower individuals to build a more peaceful and prosperous future, something that we at Ulster take inspiration from. Ulster University is delighted to recognize Carol’s legacy with this honorary degree.” 

Nicola Skelly, Executive Director of the Washington Ireland Program said:  

“We are proud to launch the WIP Class of 2025 with esteemed guests and supporters in Washington DC, and are honored to celebrate Carol as she receives this well-deserved honorary doctorate. Her leadership and unwavering commitment to service has not only shaped the Washington Ireland Program but has also had a lasting impact on the next generation of leaders in Ireland and Northern Ireland.