Senator Collins Receives 2017 Claddagh Award from Maine Irish Heritage Center

Portland, ME -The Maine Irish Heritage Center (MIHC) honored U.S. Senator Susan Collins with the 2017 Claddagh Award for her lifelong devotion to serving and improving communities throughout Maine, while always remembering and honoring her Irish roots. 

“The Maine Irish Heritage Center is the steward of the inspiring story of our Irish ancestors making Maine a place where all are welcome, and where all work together to build something great and lasting,” said Senator Collins. “Growing up, I saw my parents live every day by the defining qualities of hard work, determination, and commitment to service.  Standing tall for one’s beliefs is in our blood, while respecting the beliefs of others is in our hearts.  I am honored to receive the Maine Irish Heritage Center’s 2017 Claddagh Award.”

Raised in Aroostook County, known for its delicious potatoes and rich history, Senator Collins is a fifth-generation Mainer whose first job was picking potatoes as a teenager.  She has Irish heritage on both sides of her family.  According to the last Census, nearly one-fifth of the people in Caribou trace their roots to Ireland and actively cherish their Irish history, culture, and the contributions their ancestors made to the State of Maine.

The Claddagh, which exemplifies the ideals of friendship, loyalty and love, is a beloved symbol of Irish culture and tradition all over the world.  Each year the Maine Irish Heritage Center honors a distinguished Irish-American in Maine who has devoted his or her life to serving and improving our community and the State of Maine, and brought honor to their Irish roots by doing so. 

During the ceremony, Senator Collins and attendees were shown recorded video messages from former Vice President of the United States Joe Biden and U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) congratulating Senator Collins on receiving this prestigious award.  You can watch Vice President Biden’s video HERE and Senator King’s video HERE.

Senator Collins is the 10th annual Claddagh recipient and joins ranks that include former U.S. Senator George Mitchell, who represented Maine in the United States Senate for 15 years, and former Governor Joseph Brennan, who held office from 1979 to 1987.