Mayo native wins Heroes of Irish America award

A Kiltimagh native has been named as one of the Irish Echo's 2025 Heroes of Irish America.

Lea Walsh is director of customer experience with CIE Tours and has spent over 25 years in the US sharing her deep love of Irish culture and spirit of céad míle fáilte.

At CIE Tours, she leads with heart - mentoring Irish university students through a year-long US internship programme, supporting the Irish-American community, and spreading the spirit of Ireland wherever she goes.

CIE Tours said of Lea: 'Lea's impact reaches far beyond the office. From guiding young professionals to helping organise the Morris County St. Patrick’s Day parade, she brings people together through warmth, generosity and pride in her heritage.

'This honour from the Irish Echo recognises the unsung heroes of Irish America - ordinary folks, doing extraordinary work to build stronger communities. We couldn't think of anyone more deserving.'

The awards ceremony will take place in the Buffalo Convention Center, NY, on Friday, May 16, celebrating the unsung heroes of Irish America.