A graduate of Clarkstown High School South, Neil attended Manhattan College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree, with majors in physics and mathematics, and where he has fond memories of being an active member of the Gaelic Society. Neil went on to earn a master’s degree in computer science from New York University School of Engineering.
Neil is an active member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 3, Pearl River. Neil is currently the recording secretary for the Rockland County Board and Division 3, Pearl River. Neil also serves Division 3 as their historian, publishing a monthly history article on Irish or Irish American history. He is a member of the Rockland County AOH St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee and the Division 3 Scholarship Committee and the 1916 Commemoration Committee.
On the National Board, Neil currently serves as the National Political Education Chairman, Anti-Defamation Chair and Irish American Heritage Month Chair.
Neil has been an ardent campaigner against the proliferation of bigoted and denigrating stereotypes targeting the Irish and Irish Americans. He has written multiple articles that have been featured in the Daily News, New York Post, Washington Post and other media outlets speaking out against defamation. He has been successful in having major retailers pull merchandise that perpetuates negative Irish messages from their stores.
Neil is also the chair of the Irish American Heritage Month Committee of the AOH and is dedicated to seeing the many positive contributions and sacrifices that Irish Americans which are still undervalued fully recognized, especially in our Schools and Cultural Institutions. The Irish American Heritage Month Videos and great Irish American profiles have been viewed by tens of thousands around the world promoting both the contributions of the Irish , but also the name of the Order.
As National Political Education Chair, Neil has been active on educating U.S. elected official on the perils of Brexit to the Good Friday Agreement (GFA), the lack of British compliance with the GFA and in supporting the other chairs of the Order such as FFAI and Immigration.
Neil is also on the National Board Marketing/Technology committee and has offered his extensive experience in I. T. to the Order.
Neil is honored to have been recognize as his Division’s Hibernian of the Year in 2009, Rockland County Hibernian of the Year in 2016, the recipient of the 2019 McBride Chapter of Irish Northern Aid Man of the Year, and the recipient of the first Commodore Barry Medal awarded in National Convention in 2018
Political Education – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Brothers, the work of Political Education is not just the responsibility of the PEC chairs — it’s a duty shared by every member of the AOH. Advocacy and political engagement are fundamental to fulfilling our mission as Hibernians. Our faith, heritage, and the causes we champion depend on all of us actively making our voices heard.
As Hibernians, we are called to defend our Irish heritage, promote Catholic values, and advocate for justice. Political decisions at all levels of government affect these priorities. Generations of Irish Americans have fought tirelessly for freedom, justice and cultural preservation. We honor their sacrifices by continuing their work; being politically engaged is how we carry their legacy forward. Make it a resolution for 2025 to heed the call when there is a call to action.
The more publicly active we are, the more visible and relevant we are, the more members we will attract, and the more influence we will have. Our advocacy isn’t just about today; it’s about creating a legacy and developing an environment where the Hibernians and Irish Americans will continue into the future.
The Elevator Pitch
To that end, when you read this article, we will soon be in Irish American Heritage Month in March and celebrating our faith and heritage around St. Patrick’s Day. Sadly, this is how many politicians see the Irish American community: a one-day phenomenon and block party. As 365-day-a-year Irish Americans, it is a Hibernian duty to change that perception and use the opportunity to connect with our elected officials and build a relationship to be maintained throughout the year.
When you meet a local representative at a parade, dinner or other event, you will not likely have the time to go into the cause of the Order in detail, but you can give an “elevator speech” to establish the connection to follow up and discuss those issues. Here is an example:
“Hello [Elected Representative], I am glad to see you at this event celebrating the Irish Americans’ contribution to our community. I’m [Your Name] with the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the oldest and largest Irish Catholic organization in the U.S. Our members — many of whom are your constituents — are deeply engaged in preserving Irish culture and supporting our community through charitable work and advocacy.
“We’d love to work with you on issues that matter to the Irish American community, such as [specific issue]. Can I share more details or set up a time to talk further?”
Remember, whether you voted for them or their opponent, all elected representatives work for YOU once they take the job. Let us ensure they give their Irish American constituents the attention and effort they deserve.