PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (WPVI) — At the Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a special emphasis was made for those who give back to the Irish community.<\/p>\n
“We’re celebrating 250 years of Irish contributions to America, and we’re celebrating all of the wonderful things that the Irish community brings to Philadelphia,” said Karen Boyce McCollum, President of the Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Observance Association.<\/p>\n
As part of their 2026 Ring of Honor, they recognized the efforts of Eileen Coyle Henry, who has been a part of Irish dance for decades.<\/p>\n
“She’s a lifelong Irish step dancer, Irish dance teacher and Irish dance judge. She runs the Coyle School of Irish Dance<\/a>, along with her sisters and some other fabulous Irish dance teachers. And the Coyle School is just such a huge part of Irish dance in Philadelphia and nationally,” said McCollum.<\/p>\n “They get to appreciate and enjoy the heritage and the culture of Irish dance. You never expect to be honored for something that you enjoy and that you share with other people,” said Eileen Coyle Henry.<\/p>\n For more information, check out the video above.<\/p>\n