New Jersey Delegation Members Reflect on Success of Ireland Mission

This week, Governor Murphy led a New Jersey delegation to Ireland on a successful economic mission focused on strengthening ties with the Irish government and developing economic activity for New Jersey. Here’s what members of the delegation had to say about the trip.

Wesley Mathews, President & CEO, Choose New Jersey: “New Jersey and Ireland are natural partners, and Choose New Jersey was thrilled to coordinate the Governor Murphy-led delegation to Ireland to further strengthen our economic, academic, and cultural connections, and forge new partnerships. Our trip was extremely successful, helping to attract tens of millions of Irish investment dollars, create new jobs in New Jersey, and advance research opportunities between our institutions and Irish counterparts. The New Jersey innovation economy is primed for even greater growth, and we look forward to building upon the progress that was made during this historic mission.”

Tim Sullivan, CEO, New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA): “New Jersey and Ireland share a proud and productive relationship rooted in economic ties and common values. The Delegation Mission not only affirmed our shared interest in trade, commerce, culture, education, and research but further demonstrated Governor Murphy’s commitment to strengthening bilateral economic relations between New Jersey and Ireland. From announcing that Ireland-based Applegreen will establish their U.S. corporate headquarters in Glen Rock, to launching a collaborative research partnership with INFANT to advance maternal health outcomes in state, the mission served as a testament to New Jersey and Ireland’s dual dedication to advancing economic growth and development.”

Coleen Burrus, Director of Corporate Engagement, Princeton University: “In my role as director of corporate engagement for Princeton University, I try to get out the word that Princeton research wants to collaborate with industry to advance science and innovation; that we have remarkable research talent and very sophisticated, world-class facilities available for partners; and that we are part of a robust and inclusive innovation ecosystem in New Jersey. We appreciated the opportunity to take Princeton’s message to Ireland as part of the New Jersey delegation and look forward to continuing conversations that started on this trip.”

Michael E. Zwick, PhD, Senior Vice President for Research, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey: “Rutgers Office for Research is committed to strengthening our ties with Ireland as part of this trade mission, reflecting the University’s efforts to pursue discoveries and develop impactful solutions to the critical challenges of our time. We look forward to forging new partnerships and collaborations for the benefit of the University, our communities, the state that we serve, Ireland, and the world.”

Phil Goldfeder, Senior Vice President, Global Public Affairs, Cross River: “It was a tremendous honor to join Choose New Jersey on this memorable and productive mission to Ireland led by Governor Murphy and a prestigious NJ delegation. As Cross River and the Fintech industry expands globally, we’re humbled to play a part in building tomorrow’s bridges between communities around the globe to deepen cultural ties, fuel innovation, and expand economic inclusion.”

Kelly Stewart Maer, Director Public Affairs, Capital Health System: “The visit to Cork University Maternity Hospital echoed a common theme throughout the economic mission which highlighted many similarities between Ireland and New Jersey – both parties stand to learn from one another on the issue 0f maternal health. We started something that has the potential to save mothers’ and babies’ lives. We ignited a spark, forming a long-term collaboration that will result in systemic change in advancements in maternal health. This much-needed global relationship will help New Jersey meet its goal to be the safest and most equitable place in the nation to give birth.”