Pittsburgh Review

The Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Dinner Gala is set to take place on Monday, March 17, at Acrisure Stadium. The event will recognize individuals who contribute significantly to both the business sector and community activities in the Pittsburgh region.

Chip Ganassi, a notable figure in motorsports, will be awarded the 2025 Daniel M. Rooney Ambassador's Award. This accolade honors individuals who embody Ambassador Rooney's leadership qualities and dedication to Pittsburgh. Ganassi, a former race car driver and Duquesne University graduate, has established Chip Ganassi Racing as a leading team in the racing world while maintaining strong ties with Pittsburgh through his community work.

Evan Frazier, president and CEO of The Advanced Leadership Institute (TALI), will receive the Patricia R. Rooney Community Impact Award. This award is given to leaders who address significant contemporary issues through successful organizational initiatives. Frazier's efforts with TALI since its inception in 2016 have been instrumental in promoting Black executive leadership in the region.

The Ireland Funds were founded by Dan Rooney and Anthony J.F. O'Reilly in 1976 with goals centered on peace, culture, and charity. The organization supports various causes related to peace, arts and culture, education, and community development worldwide.

This year's gala includes an online auction featuring two exclusive packages. One package offers a trip for two to Ireland to watch the Steelers play at Croke Park in Dublin. It includes flights on a Steelers Aer Lingus charter flight from Pittsburgh International Airport, a four-night stay in Ireland, and game tickets. The starting bid for this package is $11,000.

Another package provides an Indianapolis 500 experience with Chip Ganassi Racing. It includes suite tickets, garage/pit lane passes, a police escort to Indianapolis Motor Speedway on race day, and accommodations at the JW Marriott for up to three nights. The starting bid for this package is $7,000.

Bidding for these packages closes on March 21 at 5 p.m., with further details available via text or by visiting The Ireland Funds' website.

For sponsorships or ticket inquiries related to the gala event, interested parties can contact Theresa Kaufman via phone or email.