About us
Study Abroad Changes Lives
We believe that all students should be given opportunities to explore and learn about the world, regardless of their background or financial situation. We believe Ireland provides a unique oppurtunity to foster positive experiences for all students, but especially those who are least likely to travel.
Our Mission
We are a not-for-profit charitable organization, founded in June 2018, to address the need to create mechanisms of financial support for underrepresented students from the United States to access educational study programs online & abroad. Our President is Mary Cronin, a former Ireland study abroad student (1996). Our mission is to make study abroad available to everyone.
Why Ireland?
Ireland is a safe, friendly, English-speaking country with a rich history and culture, which is still very visible and present. The stories of the Irish experience are shared by many other cultures, and these shared narratives provide a powerful perspective through which to think critically and comparatively about the past and the present.
Addressing a need
Research on educational study abroad programming consistently identifies cost, family and cultural influence, lack of awareness, financial aid restrictions, and concerns about time among the barriers to study abroad access. Affordability is a very significant barrier for many, we support students who otherwise would not be in a position to take an educational study trip to Ireland, or access online programs that would allow them to earn micro-credentials in cultural competency
Social Impact is Achievable
A correlation between internationalization and study abroad and graduation rates has been established by several studies. Other research has focused on student engagement, independence, perseverance, and confidence, all of which have been found to positively inform learning outcomes. Employers and business leaders emphasize the value of cultural competency, and all students should have access to these opportunities.
Everybody wins
We operate in a small rural corner of Northwest Ireland. Students are welcomed and most valued visitors, and the existence of an all-year round program of study abroad supports our local businesses, amenities and community, as well as providing the opportunities for U.S. students. The ties between Ireland and the U.S. are broadened, strengthened and reinforced through our work.
Educational travel & classroom internationalization changes lives. Ireland & USA links are strengthened. Everyone wins.
We welcome donations of all kinds, and thank you for considering this foundation. If you are in a position to support full scholarships, Wishing Chair Foundation Fundraisers, or other substantial supports, please contact us for a copy of our prospectus and a conversation with our board members.