events
Welcoming 2026 Honoree
International Institute for Astronautical Sciences -Astronaut 003 & Aeronautical Engineer
DR. NORAH PATTEN
Join us on Thursday, January 8, as we celebrate Dr. Norah Patten as the 2026 Nollaig na mBan Honoree, recognizing her as a trailblazer for women’s leadership in science and innovation.
A proud County Mayo native, Dr. Patten is an aeronautical engineer, Global Faculty Member at the International Space University, passionate STEM advocate, and award-winning children’s author. In June 2024, it was announced that she will join the IIAS-02 spaceflight with Virgin Galactic, becoming the first Irish person in space on the Delta Mission, alongside Dr. Shawna Pandya and Kellie Gerardi.
Come be inspired as we honor an extraordinary leader whose work continues to push boundaries and spark the next generation of explorers.
In honor of our speaker, the proceeds of the annual Nollaig na mBan Women’s Leadership Celebration will be donated to our hallmark O’Neill School Grants program.
SPONSORSHIP BENEFITS INCLUDE
- – Premier table for 10 guests with priority placement
- – Prominent brand visibility in all event communications, including media and promotional campaigns
- – Prominent brand placement throughout event experience
- – Recognition on Partnership social media channels
- – Recognition from the podium at event
- – Opportunity to provide branded materials or guest gifts at the event
Your support of the event has a direct impact on the Partnership mission and grantees across the island of Ireland.
Nollaig na mBan [Women’s Christmas], is held each year in January throughout Ireland to celebrate women’s leadership within the family and community. The Irish American Partnership commemorates this tradition with a celebration event highlighting Irish and Irish-American female leaders and the positive impact they have worldwide.
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Cosmos Club
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