A Symbol of Irish America Teeters in New York

March 17, 2021

“A Groundhog Day pattern was emerging. Before long another board member … was advocating similar reforms.”

March 17, 2021               

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

I read and write a lot about nonprofits with less than exemplary governance practices. I even work with nonprofits that are looking to improve their governance structures and procedures. Most of what I’ve posted here so far has been from the world of sports, but that hardly means other sectors are exempt. The example below comes from the world of cultural organizations, and in particular Irish cultural organizations. 

As you read the article you notice many governance red flags. For example:

• Too many members of the same family exercising tight control,
• Multiple attempts at reform, met with those recommending it being kicked to the curb,
• Lack of transparency in the finances with big dollars at stake, and 
• Some big celebrities, to get the attention of the press. 

Hopefully this mess can be sorted out in a way that allows this property to stay in the NY Irish community.