Irish Programs To Be Housed At Connolly

By Sean Smith
Staff Writer

Boston College will relocate the Irish Studies Program and several other offices to Connolly House this summer, making it the centerpiece for the University's Irish-related academic, cultural and management efforts, Academic Vice President and Dean of Faculties William B. Neenan, SJ, announced.

The Center for Irish Management also will move to Connolly House, Fr. Neenan said, as will other ongoing University programs or initiatives which focus on Ireland. These will occupy the house's second and third floors, while the first floor will remain available for general University functions and meetings.

Fr. Neenan said the relocation will enhance communication and cooperation among the various Irish-oriented programs, and highlight the University's role as an internationally recognized center for Irish culture and society.

"This will be a marvelous development for the numerous people who place Ireland at the center of their research or professional interests," Fr. Neenan said. "In almost any given week, whether in the classroom or through a special event, BC offers many elements of the Irish experience."

As examples of these endeavors, Fr. Neenan pointed to the Irish Studies Program's series of lectures commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Great Irish Famine, and to the Gaelic Roots III Music Festival in June being organized by part-time faculty member Seamus Connolly (Music). The Center for Irish Management, meanwhile, continues to provide management development and executive education to participants from Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic.

Fr. Neenan acknowledged that the change might inconvenience University community members who have utilized the upper floors of Connolly House for meeting space. However, he stressed that the first floor will remain open for such purposes, and noted that the relocation of offices and individuals to Connolly House would likely result in other venues being available on campus.

"Also, the Middle Campus Project, once completed, will provide ample meeting and dining facilities," he added. "We ask for everyone's understanding and patience, and trust that any difficulties this relocation creates will be short-lived."

Boston College has owned the Hammond Street property since 1976. It is named for two former University librarians, Fathers Terence and Brendan Connolly.