West Virginia’s deep cultural roots have always stretched far beyond our borders, and now, they’re finding new ground in Ireland. Through the WV Ireland Transatlantic Partnership, the University and its partners are creating pathways for students to experience how heritage and innovation can thrive together.
Dr. Jamie Field, an Associate Professor at WVU and appointee to the West Virginia-Ireland Trade Commission by Governor Jim Justice, sees the collaboration as a meaningful step toward expanding international engagement and opportunity.
"WVU’s involvement in the West Virginia-Ireland Trade Commission reflects a commitment to fostering innovation, education, and economic growth across borders."
From left to right: Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann (Chair of the Legislature in the Government of Ireland) Mark Daly, West Virginia University Jamie Field, House Counsel for the West Virginia House of Delegates Robert Leslie, Minister for Justice Home Affairs and Migration Jim O'Callaghan, Delegate from Berkeley Michael Hornby.
This initiative links WVU and Marshall University with Ireland’s Dundalk Institute of Technology, opening opportunities for collaboration in education, research, and workforce development. The goal is simple but powerful: to prepare students for a global economy while connecting them to shared Appalachian-Irish values of resilience, creativity, and community.
Ireland’s journey from one of Europe’s poorest nations to a hub of technology, entrepreneurship, and cultural pride serves as a model for what’s possible, and it’s a story WVU is proud to help our students learn from firsthand.
"As the state’s flagship university, WVU plays a vital role in connecting West Virginia’s talent and research strengths with global partners. Collaborations like this expand opportunities for our students and faculty, and exemplify how higher education can serve as a bridge between local priorities and international progress."
The partnership marks another step in the University’s commitment to preparing Mountaineers for a world that values both where they come from and where they’re going.
From left to right: Delegate Michael Hornby of Berkeley, CEO of The American Chamber of Commerce Ireland Paul Sweetman, House Counsel for the West Virginia House of Delegates Robert Leslie, and West Virginia University Jamie Field.