12th July, 2012

Chicago Leadership Forum 2012

Hosted by the Chicago Regional Advisory Board of The American Ireland Fund, Governor
Quinn joined supporters and spoke about the connections between the State of
Illinois and Ireland.  He emphasized the outreach in the business,
government and educational sectors and possible plans for some upcoming visits
to further those relationships.

Prior to Governor Quinn’s remarks, Regional Board Chair, Thomas Meagher, talked about
the exciting highlights of the upcoming American Ireland Fund Chicago Dinner to
be held November 14, 2012.  At the dinner, the Performing Arts Award will
be presented to actor, Liam Neeson, one of Ireland’s very own; Honorable William
M. Daley will be presented with the 2012 Leadership Award and Rick Waddell,
Chairman and CEO of Northern Trust, will accept the 2012 Social Responsibility
Award on behalf of the company.  This dinner is a cornerstone for our
continued support of Ireland.

A special treat for all gathered was the performance by  Maurice
Lennon.  It was a wonderful evening of Irish camaraderie.