Irish American Hall of Fame

09/24/2026

Today is the official beatification of Archbishop Fulton Sheen, 2014 Irish American Hall of Fame inductee and the first Illinois native to be beatified.

This is what is happening in the Dome on September 24, 2026 - celebrate Fulton Sheen! Get your tickets today at celebratesheen.com

09/11/2026

On this solemn day, we take a moment to remember 2017 Irish American Hall of Fame Inductee Father Mychal Judge (May 11, 1933 – September 11, 2001) a chaplain for the NYC Fire Department who gave his life during the 9/11 attacks.

Upon hearing the news that the World Trade Center had been hit, Father Judge rushed to the site. He administered the Last Rites to some lying on the streets, then entered the lobby of the World Trade Center North Tower, where an emergency command post was organized. When the South Tower collapsed at 9:59 am, debris went flying through the North Tower lobby, killing many inside, including Fr. Judge. He is listed as the first recorded casualty of the 9/11 attacks.

Learn more about this beloved priest via our tribute video.

05/09/2026

05/09/2026

04/06/2026

Did you purchase your tickers for the gala? It's sure to be a very special evening. General Mulholland is just one of our esteemed honorees. www.iahog.org

☘️ Honoring Service at the Irish American Hall of Fame

The Irish American Hall of Fame Awards Gala recognizes individuals whose dedication to leadership and service has made a lasting impact on our communities and our nation. This year, we are proud to honor Lt. Gen. John F. Mulholland, Jr. (Ret.) with the Public Service Award.

A highly decorated U.S. Army Special Forces officer, Lt. Gen. Mulholland served his country with distinction from 1978 to 2016. Over nearly four decades of military service, he held numerous leadership roles within the Army’s Special Operations community, helping shape modern special warfare strategy and operations.

Among his most notable achievements was commanding Task Force Dagger during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. In the early days following the September 11 attacks, Mulholland led Special Forces teams working alongside Afghan allies to confront Taliban forces. In a remarkable and historic campaign, American soldiers fought on horseback across the rugged Afghan terrain—an unconventional but highly effective strategy that helped turn the tide of the conflict. The success of Task Force Dagger is widely regarded as one of the most successful unconventional warfare campaigns in modern military history.

Mulholland also served in leadership roles during Operation Iraqi Freedom, continuing his distinguished career in special operations command and strategic leadership.

The Public Service Award honors individuals whose dedication to duty and leadership reflects the highest ideals of service. Lt. Gen. Mulholland’s extraordinary military career stands as a powerful example of courage, commitment, and service to country.

Join us as we celebrate the 2026 Irish American Hall of Fame honorees and recognize those whose leadership and sacrifice continue to inspire future generations.

Purchase your tickets here: https://irishamerican.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F37288

03/31/2026

Our 2026 inductee in the category of Business & Industry: Thomas Monaghan, founder of Domino's Pizza. Join us in honoring him at the gala. Tickets here: www.iahof.org

☘️ Honoring Leadership at the Irish American Hall of Fame Awards Gala

The Irish American Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony celebrates individuals whose achievements and leadership have made a lasting impact on their industries, communities, and the Irish American story. This year, we are proud to recognize Thomas S. Monaghan as the recipient of the Business & Industry Award.

Best known as the founder of Domino’s Pizza, Monaghan built what began as a small Michigan pizza shop into one of the largest pizza chains in the world—an extraordinary example of entrepreneurial vision and determination. In addition to his business success, he also served as owner of the Detroit Tigers, further cementing his place in American business and sports history.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Monaghan has dedicated much of his life to philanthropy and faith-centered initiatives. He is the founder and CEO of Legatus International, a global organization of Catholic business leaders committed to studying, living, and sharing their faith. He also founded Ave Maria University and Ave Maria School of Law, institutions dedicated to faith-based higher education.

The Business & Industry Award honors those whose leadership and innovation have shaped their fields while making a meaningful difference in the broader community. Thomas S. Monaghan’s career reflects both entrepreneurial success and a lifelong commitment to service and faith.

Join us as we celebrate the 2026 Irish American Hall of Fame inductees and recognize those whose work continues to inspire future generations.

Purchase tickets here: https://irishamerican.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F37288

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03/30/2026

Join us as we honor Hometown Hero Peg O'Ryan Lombardo at this year's gala. Early bird pricing through March 1! www.iahof.org

☘️ Celebrating Community at the Irish American Hall of Fame Awards Gala

Each year, the Irish American Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony honors individuals whose leadership, generosity, and dedication strengthen the Irish American community in Chicago and beyond. Among this year’s inductees for the “Hometown Heroes” Award is Peg O’Ryan Lombardo, a remarkable force for good whose lifelong commitment to service has touched countless lives.

Peg has long been a pillar of Chicago’s Irish-American community, known for her deep philanthropic involvement and unwavering dedication to helping others. Her charitable work spans a wide range of organizations, including Misericordia Heart of Mercy, the Benedictine Sisters of Chicago, Catholic Charities, and Mercy Home for Boys & Girls. She has also spent 20 years volunteering with the Greater Chicago Food Depository, helping provide essential support to families across the region.

Her civic engagement extends to supporting first responders and community organizations through her involvement with the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, the 100 Club of Chicago, and Tunnels to Towers. Within the Irish community, Peg has also played an important leadership role, serving as President, Director, and Chairman of the Board of the Irish Fellowship Club of Chicago.

The Hometown Heroes Award celebrates individuals whose service strengthens the fabric of our community, and Peg’s decades of generosity and leadership truly embody that spirit.

Join us as we celebrate the 2026 inductees and recognize those who continue to uplift Irish culture, community, and compassion in Chicago. ☘️

Purchase tickets here: https://irishamerican.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F37288