Mayo man named in Irish Echo's Top 40 Under 40 Irish in America

27-year–old Luke Gibbons from Claremorris, Co. Mayo, has been recognised by the Irish Echo Top 40 Under 40 Irish in America 2024.

Gibbons, who is currently residing in Boston, Massachusetts, saw himself on the list in recognition of his transatlantic climate research at Harvard Law school, which has been described as  both ‘innovative’ and ‘ground-breaking’. The study, which aims to provide a generalised standard between the United States and Ireland regarding company directors' attitudes towards climate risks and in turn foster transatlantic relationships, is the first of its kind.

This is not the first time the Claremorris man has been awarded for his efforts. In 2022 Gibbons was named as Irish Law Student of the Year as a result of his climatic research.

Gibbons’ research has led to him meeting several influential individuals, including former Secretary of State and US presidential candidate, Hillary Clinton, and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Maria Ressa.

The young man's endeavours to promote Irish American relations is another reason he is receiving such renowned recognition. In September 2023, Gibbons founded the Ireland America Young Professionals Network (IAYPN), which now has a board of 10 individuals based between Ireland and the States.

Gibbons recently travelled to Scranton, Pennsylvania, to present at the  ‘Meet a Nice Irish Fellow’ event. The event, which was covered by both WBRE and FOX News, saw 100 Irish-Americans in attendance to hear his presentation. On both news stations Gibbons spoke about securing the Irish American relationship by demonstrating its importance to the younger generations.

The 17th Annual 40 Under 40 Awards will take place on Friday, February 23rd, 2024 at The View at The Battery in New York City. See the full list of awardees here.