Leona Maguire, two-time LPGA tour winner and #14 in the world, yesterday appeared at Dromoland Castle to announce additional Irish American Partnership gifts amounting to $25,000 to four primary schools, bringing the 2023 total, distributed among 35 schools, to more than $250,000.
The Cavan star presented a $10,000 grant to Catherine Bockett, the school principal of Dunsany National School in Co. Meath. Additional grants were made to Feakle National School, Parteen National School, and Fanore National School, all located in County Clare.
Maguire said, “Education is huge in my family, and I really value working with the Irish American Partnership to give back to schools and students. Their impact at grassroots level is outstanding. Together, we want to make sure that every child has the resources they need to learn and grow.”
Maguire continued, “By investing in education, we are really investing in the future of Ireland – our young people.”
This award tees off Maguire’s appearance at the 2023 KPMG Women’s Irish Open, following her second triumph at the LPGA Meijer Classic, and her automatic qualification to play for Team Europe at the Solheim Cup in Andalucía, Spain in late September.
Irish American Partnership Chief Executive Mary Sugrue said, “To us, Leona’s formidable success on the golf course and her commitment to education are equally inspiring, particularly for the young women and aspiring golfers across the island. We are so proud to work with her again this year and wish her the very best at the Women’s Irish Open this weekend.”
Maguire has championed the charity’s mission of investing in Ireland’s future, largely through educational initiatives and scholarships. Through the Partnership’s hallmark ‘O’Neill School Grants’ program, 35 schools have received $250,000 in funding so far in 2023.
Principal of Dunsany National School Catherine Bockett said, “Thanks to our hero Leona, and to the incredible generosity of the Irish American Partnership supporters, our school will be well resourced coming into the new school year. We are very grateful.”
The Irish American Partnership’s collaboration with Maguire builds upon the success of previous initiatives including nationwide university access scholarships, empathy education in secondary schools, education centers for homeless youth, STEM resources to primary schools, technology apprenticeships as a gateway to employment, and an Outdoor Play & Learning program, launched by Partnership Patron and fellow professional golfer, Pádraig Harrington.
ABOUT THE IRISH AMERICAN PARTNERSHIP
Dedicated to connecting Irish America and friends of Ireland to their heritage through targeted giving – The Irish American Partnership invest in education, community development, and peace initiatives across the island of Ireland.
Since their inception in 1986, supporters have raised more than $56 million for young people and communities, North and South, empowering and educating the next generation of global leaders.
For more information, please click here.
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