American Ireland Fund's New York Gala Raises Over $2.3 Million

1,200 Guests Honor Mayor Bloomberg, Taoiseach Brian Cowen and Jack Dunn and Dennis Shaughnessy of FTI Consulting

More than 1,200 guests gathered last Thursday evening at the American Ireland Fund's 34th Annual New York Gala at the Tent at Lincoln Center to honor New York's Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Taoiseach Brian Cowen T.D., and FTI Consulting's President & Chief Executive Officer, Jack Dunn, and Chairman, Dennis Shaughnessy.

The fundraiser, the largest of the Fund's 80 worldwide events, raised over $2.3 million in support of Irish-American and Irish philanthropic causes.

At the event, Michael Bloomberg received the 2009 Humanitarian Award in recognition of his leadership as Mayor of New York City and for his philanthropic endeavors. Mayor Bloomberg has been a strong supporter of the North's drive to develop its economy and to bed-down the Peace Process.

Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin accepted the 2009 Heritage Award on behalf of An Taoiseach Brian Cowen T.D., who was honored for his dedication to strengthening the relationship between Ireland and America, the aid he has provided to the weaker members of the Irish Diaspora, and his role in the Peace Process.

In addition, the 2009 Leslie C. Quick Jr. Leadership Award was presented to Jack Dunn, President & Chief Executive Officer, and Dennis Shaughnessy, Chairman, of FTI Consulting, Inc. Under their leadership, FTI has become the leading global consulting firm to organizations confronting restructuring, investigations, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory issues and reputation management challenges.

"The continuous dedication and support of our Irish-American and Irish patrons is what has made the 34th Annual Gala such a success. Despite the current economic crisis, we are delighted by the funds raised this year. This year's Gala is among the most successful fundraising events in the US this year, and is a true testament to the strength and commitment of the Irish-American community," commented Kieran McLoughlin, President of the American Ireland Fund. "We thank our 2009 honorees, Dinner Committee and loyal supporters for allowing us to continue our mission to fund programs promoting peace, education and community development throughout the island of Ireland."

The Dinner Co-Chairs of the 2009 American Ireland Fund dinner are John G. Duffy, Chairman and CEO of KBW, Inc. and Michael P. Higgins, Managing Director, Head of Real Estate Finance, CIBC World Markets. The success of the Dinner was said to be driven by a committee of 66 business and philanthropic leaders of whom 10 are based in Ireland.