Kathleen Higgins Greeley has been inaugurated as Ireland’s first Honorary Consul in Buffalo and Western New York.
The inauguration took place on Friday, May 16 at the new Honorary Consulate on Delaware Avenue in Buffalo in New York, with family members and local elected representatives in attendance.
Announcing the inauguration, the Consulate General of Ireland, New York said: "With deep roots in the Irish American community and extensive experience from her time working in the New York State Courts System, Higgins Greeley will strengthen existing links and develop political, economic and cultural opportunities between Ireland and Western New York in her new role."
The Consulate added: "The appointment of Higgins Greeley as Ireland’s first Honorary Consul in Buffalo and Western New York underscores Ireland’s ongoing commitment to deepening ties with the region.
"Buffalo is home to a strong Irish diaspora with thriving cultural and economic connections. The region hosts significant institutions like the University at Buffalo’s renowned James Joyce Collection and benefits from strategic investments in advanced technology manufacturing, aligning with Ireland’s global priorities.
"The Honorary Consul’s office in Buffalo will provide consular support to Irish citizens in the counties of Niagara, Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany in Western New York.
"Higgins Greeley will also support the Embassy of Ireland in Washington, DC, and the Consulate General in New York in the delivery of Ireland’s strategic objectives for the region."
“I am humbled and excited to be the first ever Honorary Consul of Ireland to Buffalo and Western New York," Honorary Consul Kathleen Higgins Greeley said.
"We are fortunate in this area to have such a wealth of Irish history and heritage created by Irish immigrants and sustained by our vibrant Irish American community.
"Having an Honorary Consul of Ireland in Buffalo will build on these foundations to help us strengthen our ties with Ireland across trade, tourism, culture, and commerce.
"I look forward to working with our community leaders to continue to grow and enhance our Irish legacy for future generations to come.”
Geraldine Byrne Nason, Ireland's Ambassador to the US, said she was delighted to welcome Higgins Greeley as Ireland's first Honorary Consul in Buffalo.
"Western New York holds a unique place in our shared history – an area where generations of Irish immigrants helped to shape the region, from building the Erie Canal to making lasting contributions in education, economics and governance across Western New York," Ambassador Byrne Nason said.
"This new role reflects Ireland’s continued commitment to strengthening our ties and deepening our engagement across the United States.
"I am confident that Ms. Higgins Greeley will be a dedicated advocate for our community and shared future.”
Helena Nolan, Consul General of Ireland in New York, commented: “Our Honorary Consuls play a vital role in promoting Ireland, supporting Irish communities and strengthening the bonds between those communities and Ireland.
"Kathleen Higgins Greeley’s deep connections in Buffalo, her dedication to the Irish diaspora, and her decades of public service make her an exceptional choice.
"We are delighted she will continue to champion Ireland’s interests in this important region.”
Who is Kathleen Higgins Greeley?
In a brief bio, the Consulate of Ireland, New York said Higgins Greeley "brings over 36 years of experience as an analyst and administrator in the New York State Courts System.
"She has served in high-profile roles, including case management for the State Supreme Court and implementing reforms in family court systems.
"Known for her expertise in managing sensitive cases and her ability to work effectively with public agencies, Higgins Greeley is also a dedicated advocate for the Irish community in Buffalo.
"Higgins Greeley’s strong relationships across cultural, labour, and political circles, along with her familiarity with consular needs, make her uniquely qualified for this role.
"A long-time resident of Buffalo, she has a passion for promoting Irish culture and strengthening Ireland’s connections with the region."
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