James Rogers, managing director of the University of St. Thomas Center for Irish Studies since its founding in 1996, received the Curtin-Conway Award from the Minnesota Irish Fair.
The award was presented Saturday, Aug. 13, during the Irish Fair held on St. Paul’s Harriet Island.
James Rogers
Rogers, who received his master’s degree in English from St. Thomas in 1999, has been editor of New Hibernia Review, the center’s journal, since 2005. He has published and lectured widely on Irish-American literature and culture, and recently completed a two-year term as president of the American Conference for Irish Studies.
According to the Irish Fair’s website, the award “is presented to someone who has a long history of service or support to the Irish cultural community in the Twin Cities and/or Minnesota. The person chosen has made significant contributions and presents an inspirational example to others. The name of the honoree is placed on a plaque that is on public display at Irish On Grand.”
Named for Leah Curtin and Roger Conway, two of original organizers of the festival, the award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the Irish cultural community.
The award was presented by Maria Conway Flynn, chair of the board of the Minnesota Irish Fair.
The Irish Fair began in 1996 and was held on the St. Thomas campus in St. Paul from 1997 to 2000.
A video of the award presentation can be seen here.
