Ireland Roundtable Discussion

Admittedly, I did shed a tear or two when discussing the profound impact my trip to Ireland and relationship to the Emerald Isle has had on me since my time there but also in relation to my viewpoint on international relations. We are blessed at John Carroll University to have a course that does explore the complex history of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, along with the relationship America and Britain had with it. This offers us the abilities to even host roundtables like these in an attempt to promote genuine conversation that capitalizes on our prior connections.

Being able to be apart of an event that not only empahsized John Carroll University’s commitment to nurturing a relationship with Ireland through our Global Education, Study Abroad’s, and Experential Learning but also being able to brainstorm future collaborations played an important role in the success of the roundtable. As a student, to be able to have the experience of interacting with a minister of a Ireland and also with Mark Owens, MBA, the honorary consulate of Ireland within Ohio, is something truly unique to the community of John Carroll University. Being able to also hear from other faculty, students, the Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland, proponents of the GAA, to name a few only added to the layer of perspective within our conversations.

 

This experience showcased to me the incredible power of healthy conversation within leadership, especially when utilized across cultural or political lines. Each person that sat at the table to discuss the educational opportunities between JCU and Ireland as well as the continuous peace building process had excellent insights. As we collaborated, I learned to understand the perspectives of others and how this shapes intuitive leadership procedures that take into account both majority and minority opinions.

 

This opportunity gave me hope that we can continue to strengthen the strong ties of the Irish within our local community but also powerfully increase our relationship with a country that has profoundly shaped so many others. Ní Neart Go Cur Le Chéile! (There is no strength without unity)