ROONEY FELLOWSHIP

The Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh was started by Sister Michele O’Leary, to help bring people over from Ireland and give them a better education and training so they can return to Ireland and find a better job. Their goal is to improve the economic stability of the country by giving the underprivileged a second chance.

The Rooney Fellows describe the Ireland Institute as the most critical and important aspect of the Rooney Fellowship. They manage the whole program in every way. From getting the Visa application sent though, to getting the flights booked for all your travel needs.

The Ireland Institute then organises their class schebule at the University and work schedules at the Pitsburgh Steelers and Heinz North America.

You will then start for the first few weeks working in the Ireland Institute so you can have some experience of office work before you go to Heinz. They let you do whatever you are most comfortable with either answering the telephones, sorting out invoices, or working with computers.

"Named in honor of Daniel M. Rooney, co-founder of the Ireland Fund, the Rooney fellowship is now about to begin its 14th year. The fellowship has provided the opportunity for students from Newry City Institute to undertake a one-year undergraduate business program at the University of Pittsburgh or Duquesne University and to participate in an internship program with the H. J. Heinz Corporation and the Pittsburgh Steelers Football Club. This fellowship is awarded each year to an outstanding student. The Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh is proud to have played a role coordinating the fellowship .

The goals of the Rooney Fellowship are very much entwined with some of the goals of the Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh namely in promoting economic development in Ireland & Northern Ireland.

The program has had great success with all the alumni completing their education and engaged on successful career paths.

We thank Mr. Rooney and the American Ireland Fund for their continued support."