Irish Cultural Center

The Irish Cultural Center is a forum for Irish cultural events such as lectures, musical presentations, films, and exhibits. It is the work of Elms President Kathleen Keating, s.s.j., Elms history professor Thomas F. Moriarty, and Sean F. Cahillane, whose mother came to Western Massachusetts from the Great Blasket Island off Ireland's West Coast.

The Irish Cultural Center at Elms College officially opened in the fall of 1999. Over the years, its events have ranged from the social to the spiritual to the educational. Many of them have been aimed at Irish Americans, but a number have also been for the enlightenment and enjoyment of the general public in Western Massachusetts.

We have offered lectures, music events, films and exhibits, even establishing several yearly events, including a writing contest for middle school students, Celtic Adventures for Kids, Christmas with an Irish Touch, film series, brunch in June, and marching in the Holyoke St. Patrick's Day Parade.

Since 2001, the Center presented its Celtic Adventures for Kids, a week-long program for youngsters in grades 2 through 8 to introduce them to Irish music, dance and the Irish language. Since 2002, the Center sponsored an essay contest for youngsters in grades 7 and 8 in all the schools in the area.

The Center has also collaborated with Westfield State College, Holyoke Community College, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the John Boyle O'Reilly Club, St. Patrick's Parade Committee, the Sons of Erin, Holyoke Heritage State Park, and the World Affairs Council of Greater Springfield in conducting events.

During the tenure of three directors: Tom Moriarty, Ann-Gerard Flynn and Judith Kappenman, s.s.j., the number of members have grown as we have hosted hundreds of events where thousands have joined us at the Elms College. Since 2003 Sister Judith Kappenman, director, has been responsible for the management of the Center on a day to day basis, as well as working with committees in offering events and programs.

For a complete listing of upcoming events or to find more information, please visit our website.