Two women whose dedication to Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula has helped strengthen generations of friendship between Ireland and Western Massachusetts.
The St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke is proud to announce Caroline Boland and the late Mary Ferriter as the recipients of its 2027 Ambassador Award, recognizing their contributions to promoting Irish culture, hospitality, and the longstanding relationship between Ireland and the United States.
Both women share a special connection to Western Massachusetts through their involvement with the Dingle Peninsula Showcase at The Big E in West Springfield. For decades, the showcase has brought the traditions, craftsmanship, businesses, and welcoming spirit of County Kerry to American audiences, strengthening the ties between the two communities.
Caroline Boland has dedicated her career to promoting the Dingle Peninsula through tourism, hospitality, and international partnerships. Through her work with Dingle Peninsula Tourism, she has helped introduce visitors to the region’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, local businesses, and traditions.
Boland has been a familiar presence at The Big E, helping maintain and strengthen the relationship between the Dingle Peninsula and Western Massachusetts. Her efforts have supported tourism and cultural exchange while celebrating the shared history of Irish families who settled in the region generations ago.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Holyoke Parade Committee's Ambassador Award with my friend Mary. It is the joy of meeting so many in Western Massachusetts who share our love of our culture and heritage that brings together the magic of friendship, family and community. It is a privilege to visit each year, representing ‘muintir na duathaí Chorca Dhuibhne’, the people of the Dingle Peninsula and our local family businesses every year. The welcome and hospitality we receive reflects our shared sense of community on both sides of the Atlantic, and the incredible friendships and partnerships that have been both maintained and developed over time. Go raibh míle maith agaibh, a chairde.” - Caroline Boland
Mary Ferriter was a beloved member of the Dingle community and an influential figure in the growth of Dingle Distillery. Serving as General Manager and later Global Brand Ambassador, she played an important role in introducing the distillery and the Dingle Peninsula to audiences around the world.
Her involvement with the Dingle Peninsula Showcase at The Big E helped bring a piece of Ireland to Western Massachusetts, where visitors could experience the products, stories, and traditions of her home. Remembered for her warmth, enthusiasm, and dedication to Dingle, Ferriter left a lasting impression on the people and communities she encountered. Her recognition as a 2027 Ambassador Award recipient celebrates both her professional contributions and the friendships she helped build throughout her life.
“We are deeply honoured and grateful to the committee for recognising Mary in this way, she always loved her visits to the U.S. especially meeting and connecting with people from all walks of life. 'Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine', ‘In each other’s shadow, we live’ - her favourite saying and words that she lived her life by, a phrase that represents her love for her community and bringing people together. We cannot think of a better way for her to be remembered. Go raibh míle maith agaibh” - Ferriter Family
Together, Boland and Ferriter represent the spirit of the Ambassador Award, demonstrating how personal connections, cultural traditions, and a shared appreciation for Irish heritage can build friendships that reach far beyond Ireland’s shores.
Established in 1992 in collaboration with Ireland’s Ambassador to the United States, the Ambassador Award recognizes individuals whose work promotes goodwill, cultural exchange, and stronger relationships between the people of Ireland and the United States.
Both women will be honored at the 2027 Ambassador Award Breakfast on Sunday, March 21, during Holyoke’s St. Patrick’s Parade weekend. Caroline Boland will attend, with her daughter Mallaidh to receive her award, while members of the Ferriter family will be present to accept the award on behalf of the late Mary Ferriter.
The 74th Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade will step off later that day, continuing one of the region’s most cherished celebrations of Irish heritage.
For additional information about the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke and the 2027 Parade festivities, visit www.holyokestpatricksparade.com.
