Programs & Resources

IACI programs have explored and promoted the richness and diversity of Irish culture and is an educational and grant-making foundation.  The IACI has dispersed  $1 million in awards for recognition of achievement in Irish studies, culture and arts, and in funding for research in Irish and Irish-American studies.  It is the sole United States organization with the distinction of having as its Patron the President of Ireland.

The Irish Way - A unique cultural experience for teenagers, is a nationally recognized summer study abroad program that has educated over 3000 American high school students since 1975.   Click here to visit the Irish Way website.

Irish American Kids -The IACI is looking to expand our programs to focus on children, teens and educators.  Please visit our newest site - www.irishamericankids.org.  If you are an educator and would be willing to serve on our advisory committee to assist with curriculum, web content and program planning, or have any suggestions for enhancing this program,  please contact us.

NJ Irish American Writers & Artists Salon - The IACI has forged a partnership with the NJ Irish American Writers and Artists (IAW&A).  The Salon sessions allow writers, artists, and playwrights to express themselves in front of a safe and nurturing community.    Salons are held the fourth Thursday of every month, at the IACI office in Morristown, NJ.  To reserve your spot e-mail: irishwriter@optonline.net!  Learn more about  Irish American Writers & Artists

RDS National Crafts Award - The RDS National Crafts Competition aims to promote the practice of craft in Ireland and to encourage the highest standards of design and technique in both traditional and contemporary craft disciplines.   To learn more, click here.

IACI Awards - The IACI Awards are granted annually to artists, writers, and organizations in Ireland for their efforts in Irish history, literature, and art.

Fellowship - The IACI/NUIG Visiting Fellowship in Irish Studies is made possible by joint funding from the Irish American Cultural Institute and the National University of Ireland,Galway.  It is granted to an Irish studies scholar, typically a resident of the United States, and provides a semester (4 months or more) at the National University of Ireland-Galway.   Click here to learn more.  Read a report from the latest recipient

IACI Irish Studies Library - Developed over the last thirty years, the library contains several thousand volumes, including a number of rare works. 

Traveling Exhibits -  The IACI is the proud owner of  two authentic Irish pieces - a currach and an Irish Travelers cart. These pieces will be integrated into a “hands-on” educational program to bring adults and children closer to their Irish heritage. We are currently seeking funding to restore the cart and sponsors to transport these pieces to Irish festivals, universities, and parades throughout the US.  If you are interested in donating to the restoration fund, or becoming a travel sponsor, contact us.

The Book of Kells Experience -   Our facsimile reproduction is a representation of the original manuscript on display at Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland.  For a more in-depth understanding of this medieval work of art and faith, we offer an additional opportunity to discover the Book of Kells through a viewing of “The Book of Kells” .  It includes images of all 340 folios of the manuscript — allowing the display of detailed reproductions of each page. Featuring narrations by Olivia O'Leary and Stephen Rea, the history of The Book of Kells is told, with decorative and symbolic themes clearly explained.

The Famine Ships - A multi-media experience is presented through special features, allowing you to SEE the conditions immigrants were forced to endure while viewing the Famine Ships artwork, created by Rodney Charman , which was featured in “The Famine Ships” by Edward Laxton.  You will also LISTEN to the hope, joy, sadness and frustration that was part of the Irish immigration experience. Contained on the accompanying CD “Thousands Are Sailing”, songs are sung in the ancient Gaelic language and English.

O'Malley Art Collection - Donated by Helen Hooker O'Malley, a noted collector.  The collection contains works by Jack Yeats, Paul Henry, Gerard Dillon and Patrick Hennessey.  The estimated value is in excess of $1,000,000 and is currently on loan to the University of Limerick.  To learn more, click here.

Annie Moore Project - On January 1, 1892, Annie Moore, a 15 year old girl from County Cork, became the first immigrant processed at Ellis Island. In honor of the 100th anniversary of this milestone, the IACI coordinated an international effort to have a commemorative statue of Annie Moore erected at Ellis Island, and at her Irish departure point, Cobh, in County Cork. Click here to learn more.