Young County Roscommon woman makes Irish Top 40 Under 40 list in the US

A Boyle woman has been nominated for the 18th annual Irish Top 40 Under 40 Awards in the US.

Aileen Kennedy from Copse, Boyle has been nominated for her “exceptional blend of professional excellence, Irish community involvement, and personal interests which makes her a truly outstanding colleague and leader.” 

Director of Trading Infrastructure Operations for Option IT. Aileen has been living in New York for the last eight years and is one of 40 people from across America who has been nominated in the annual awards organised by the Irish Echo newspaper.

She originally pursued her undergraduate degree in English and History at Maynooth before moving to Belfast to complete a masters in Irish studies, with a focus on Irish history, from Queen’s University and she remained in Belfast going on to join Options Technology.

Her nomination states: “Aileen has been a cornerstone of OIT’s Trading Infrastructure Operations for eight remarkable years, bringing exceptional skill and passion to her role as Director. Since relocating to New York City in 2018, she has been instrumental in managing trading operations for one of Option’s largest US clients, demonstrating unparalleled commitment and strategic leadership.

“Beyond her professional achievements, Aileen embodies a holistic approach to personal and professional growth. Previously a member of the Manhattan Gaels and O’Donovan Rossa GAA teams and the O’Donnell School of Irish Dancing, she reached a significant milestone by competing at the World Championships in 2019, showcasing her determination and competitive spirit.

“She is actively involved in corporate social initiatives, including the Women’s Network, Irish Networks and supporting Irish American charities. Her dedication to professional development is evident in her efforts to mentor and train new members of the trading infrastructure team, helping to cultivate the next generation of talented professionals.

“A true New Yorker at heart, Aileen balances her dynamic career with a love for cultural exploration, often spending her spare time discovering the city’s vibrant art scene through Manhattan’s numerous galleries and indulging in her passion for reading. 

"Her exceptional blend of professional excellence, Irish community involvement, and personal interests makes Aileen Kennedy a truly outstanding colleague and leader.” 

Speaking about her nomination Aileen said: “I am very lucky to come from a family who always put a strong emphasis on all aspects of Irish culture and heritage, be it traditional music, dance, sport, literature, language and history. Going to university strengthened my love for this even more. 

"When I moved to New York keeping in touch with this was very important. I am an avid supporter of Irish writers and artists. A regular concert or session attendee for music, I have a particular love for GAA handball, and upon moving here joined GAA teams and Irish dancing as a way to meet people as well as keep ties to Irish heritage alive. A new way I am trying to embrace my Irish heritage is by incorporating more Irish language into my day to day in 2025.”

Voting is now open and anyone wishing to support Aileen can do so by logging on to VOTE for your Irish Echo 2025 People’s Choice.