Irish eyes are smiling at the celebration in the Sandra Feldman hall.

Committee Chair Doris Marie Meyer introduces Paul Finnegan, the executive director of the New York Irish Center.

Deputy Consul General of Ireland in New York Anna McGillicuddy says Irish teachers in New York “won so many friends for Ireland.”

Memoirist Maura Mulligan reads about her childhood run-in with a stern Irish schoolmaster, as fiddler Marie Reilly provides dramatic accompaniment.

Irish Echo associate editor Peter McDermott speaks.

Guitarist and singer Donie Carroll performs Irish songs.

Professional committees head George Altomare gives UFT President Michael Mulgrew the Eileen Lynch Award.

UFT Retired Teachers Chapter Leader Tom Murphy greets the crowd.