INSIDERNJ’s annual tribute to St. Patrick’s Day and our list of Irish American leaders is our way of acknowledging the accomplishments and contributions of New Jersey’s Irish Americans.
Once again, the list includes dozens of newcomers and veterans alike with profiles of those who take pride in their Irish American heritage.
Last year, with a shout out to Governor Phil Murphy and Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, we featured a retrospective of James Hoban (1755-1831), an 18th century Irish American, born in Kilkenny, Ireland, the son of tenant farmers who, after emigrating to America in 1785, won a commission from George Washington in the 1790’s to design and build the White House.
This year’s “Tip of the Top Hat” is a salute to three men of the Giblin clan, New Jersey’s iconic Irish American family whose roots can be traced to Tibohine, Frenchpark, County Roscommon, and to the counties of Longford, Meath and Mayo, Ireland.
A long way away, to be sure, from the leafy suburban town of Verona, New Jersey where the grandson of the tribe, the 2024 Newark St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal, now resides.
Third Generation is the Charm
A unique and recent feature of the Giblin family’s Irish heritage is that this year, for the first time in the storied history of the 89th Anniversary Newark St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Grandfather John J. Giblin (1951), son Thomas P. Giblin (1975), and grandson Edward “Ted” Giblin (2024) will have worn the Grand Marshal’s top hat and sash to lead New Jersey’s oldest Irish parade.
The age-old motto of the Newark St. Patrick’s Day parade, which dates to 1936, is “Keep the Tradition Alive.”
Tom Barrett, compiler of the list, would like our readers to know it is purely subjective. We hope you enjoy it.
Download the Irish American List here or view it below:
Tom Barrett’s NJ Irish American Leaders 2024
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Tom Barrett, a prominent figure in New Jersey politics, recently released his highly anticipated list of Irish American leaders for the year 2024. Presented by Insider NJ, this list highlights the contributions and achievements of Irish Americans in various fields such as politics, business, and community service.
Barrett, who is known for his expertise in New Jersey politics and his deep connections within the Irish American community, carefully curated this list to showcase the diverse talent and leadership within the community. The list includes individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective fields and have demonstrated a commitment to serving their communities.
One of the notable figures on the list is Congressman Brendan Boyle, who represents Pennsylvania’s 2nd congressional district. Boyle, who is of Irish descent, has been a strong advocate for working-class families and has championed issues such as healthcare, education, and economic equality. His inclusion on Barrett’s list highlights his dedication to public service and his leadership within the Irish American community.
Another standout on the list is Mary Kay Henry, the international president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Henry, who is of Irish heritage, has been a vocal advocate for workers’ rights and has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of SEIU members. Her inclusion on Barrett’s list recognizes her leadership within the labor movement and her commitment to social justice.
In addition to politicians and labor leaders, Barrett’s list also features prominent business figures such as Tim Ryan, the CEO of PwC US. Ryan, who is of Irish descent, has been instrumental in driving innovation and growth within the company and has been recognized for his leadership in the business world. His inclusion on the list highlights the success and influence of Irish Americans in the corporate sector.
Overall, Tom Barrett’s New Jersey Irish American Leaders 2024 list is a testament to the talent and leadership within the Irish American community. By showcasing individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields and communities, Barrett’s list serves as a reminder of the important role that Irish Americans play in shaping the future of New Jersey and beyond.
