I am a person of Irish heritage, and the history of the people of Ireland, with the great famine and far-reaching diaspora, is of utmost personal importance to me and countless others. Quinnipiac University's decision not to reopen the museum of Irish history after the pandemic, but rather to close it for good, strikes close to the hearts of individuals like myself who have a connection to Ireland's complicated and rich heritage.

This museum was not just a repository of relics and artworks. It was a center of learning, weaving the tapestry of Irish history and culture for anyone who would pursue knowledge and education.

To shut it down is a loss not only to us, who are proud of our Irish heritage, but also to students, scholars, and seekers of knowledge of Irish history. We therefore urge Quinnipiac University to reconsider. In the spirit of generating dialogue, promoting cultural enrichment, and bringing our rich history within reach of all, we urge the authorities to reconsider, for indeed, it is a grave error to let such a storied institution slip into memory alone.

I, together with the undersigned members of Quinnipiac University and the surrounding community, call upon the new President, Marie Hardin, to restore the museum in its original glory.