Elizabeth Stack

Executive Director

Dr. Elizabeth Stack hails from Listowel in County Kerry, Ireland, a town renowned for its writers and a deep-seated appreciation for history. Growing up next to the iconic John B. Keane's pub, Stack was steeped in a culture of storytelling and historical preservation. Her love for history blossomed early, encouraged by a town that lives and breathes its heritage.

Private tutoring from eminent historians at University College Dublin (UCD) further fueled her passion. Dr. Stack obtained a doctorate in history from Fordham University in New York, studying the intertwined fate of Irish and German immigrants between 1880 and 1924. This led her to a profound understanding of immigration patterns and the challenges faced by early settlers.

Before her current role, Dr. Stack transformed the Irish American Heritage Museum in Albany, New York. She expanded the museum from a small storefront to a larger space with a theater and exhibition area, significantly increasing its revenue and contributions. Reflecting on her tenure, Stack emphasized the challenge of engaging multiple generations in the narrative of Irish heritage.

With a rich historical preservation and public education background, Dr. Stack's appointment at the AIHS comes at a crucial time. The AIHS, located in a beautiful Gilded Age mansion on Manhattan's Fifth Avenue, was purchased in 1939 and funded by the Irish Palace Building Association. This association consisted largely of immigrant maids and construction workers who pooled their resources to buy the property.

However, maintaining such an iconic but aging structure presents significant challenges. From high utility bills to necessary repairs, the operational costs are immense. Dr. Stack is candid about the institution's financial needs and underscores the importance of community support.

Dr. Stack's vision for AIHS involves striking a balance between honoring the past and addressing contemporary issues. This includes programming that compares the historical Irish immigrant experience with other groups, addressing modern themes relevant to Ireland and Irish America. By incorporating more academic lectures, literature, and contemporary issues like the impact of the Eighth Amendment repeal and same-sex marriage legalization in Ireland, Stack aims to bridge the generational gap and sustain engagement.

Dr. Stack emphasizes the importance of collaborating with other cultural institutions in New York City, such as the Irish Arts Center, NYU's Glucksman Ireland House, and the Irish Repertory Theatre. She hopes to foster partnerships to complement and enhance each organization’s programming without competition.

Dr. Stack is focused on stimulating community support, which is a key element in AIHS's survival. Despite many petitioners opposing the building's sale, membership and donations remain low. Encouraging listeners and the wider community to become members or donate is crucial for the Society’s future. Small contributions can substantially impact the Society, helping secure larger grants and ensuring the institution continues its mission.

Dr. Elizabeth Stack’s passion and expertise make her a beacon of hope for the American Irish Historical Society. Her multifaceted approach, which combines respect for historical narratives with contemporary relevance, is crucial for revitalizing this cultural gem. With ongoing community support, the AIHS can continue to thrive and serve as a vital resource for understanding and celebrating the Irish American experience.

To learn more about the American Irish Historical Society and support its mission, visit their newly launched website [AIHSNY.org](http://www.aihsny.org).