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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Insider NJ recently released their highly anticipated list of Irish American leaders in New Jersey for the year 2024. This list highlights individuals of Irish descent who have made significant contributions to their communities and the state as a whole.
One of the notable figures on the list is Senator Patrick O’Connor, who has been a strong advocate for education reform and economic development in New Jersey. O’Connor has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of education in the state and has been instrumental in passing legislation that supports small businesses and job growth.
Another influential leader on the list is Mayor Kathleen Murphy, who has been praised for her efforts to revitalize her city and improve the quality of life for its residents. Murphy has spearheaded initiatives to promote economic development, increase affordable housing options, and enhance public safety in her community.
The list also includes prominent business leaders such as Brian Kelly, CEO of a successful tech company, and Mary Sullivan, a respected attorney who has fought for social justice and equality in the legal system.
These Irish American leaders exemplify the values of hard work, dedication, and community service that are deeply rooted in Irish culture. Their contributions to New Jersey have had a lasting impact on the state and serve as an inspiration to others.
Insider NJ’s 2024 list of Irish American leaders is a testament to the important role that individuals of Irish descent play in shaping the future of New Jersey. These leaders serve as role models for the next generation and demonstrate the power of determination and perseverance in achieving success.
