Shannan Rose Dillon Bio:

Hobbies & Interests: Loves Animals, Plays Golf, Basketball & Softball

1am the youngest of five children. I have three brothers and one sister. From the time I was born I was exposed to our Irish heritage. The AOH and the members have been a big part of my life. I became a member of the junior LAOH at age 13. For the last four years I have been an avid member of the Junior LAOH serving as vice president for two years and now as president for the last year and a half. I am an active member in our community as well as in high school. I’m involved in multiple sports, varsity basketball softball and golf. I have been awarded scholar athlete. This means I have to maintain over a 90% GPA while involved with sports. I have also been appointed as a Safe School Ambassador Which is a non-bullying program at school.

Chloe Isabelle Sheil Bio:

Hobbies & Interests: Irish step dancing, reading, crocheting, baking, fitness, kayaking, fashion and makeup, and ice skating. Chloe Sheil is a sweet 16 year old who lives with her parents and younger sister, Emily, and their mini schnauzer, Pixie. Chloe is homeschooled and will be a senior next Fall. Chloe is a compassionate, caring and super friendly young lady who loves God, her family, and friends very much. She enjoys amigurumi and crocheting and often shares her creations with family and friends. Chloe is especially good at makeup design and is known for helping her friends with their makeup at dance competitions. Chloe enjoys baking, exercise and fitness, kayaking, ice skating, and music from the 40’s. One can often find her cuddled up in a warm blanket with a good book and a cup of tea. Her favorite season is Summer and her favorite color is red. Chloe has been a member of the Sheahan Gormley School of Irish Dance since 2014. Last year she received 5th place in her Traditional Set at Oireachtas 2022 Mid-Atlantic Region, making us all proud of her achievement. As often as she can, she arrives early to class to assist her teacher with the younger dancers. This year Chloe, together with her family, started a new business, The Red Rose Barn Treasures. She’s also the leader of the Dance and Worship Ministry of her church. Chloe is certified in First Aid and CPR. She is also interested in business administration, nursing, culinary arts, and forensic science.

Emily Conte Bio:

I’m Emily Conte! I’m thrilled to be given the opportunity to attend the Celtic Irish American Academy. I’m currently a sophomore at Pleasantville High School and I have a wide range of hobbies and interests. First and foremost, I have a passion for Irish Step Dance, which I’ve been practicing since the age of 4. Dancing is not only a form of self-expression for me but also a way to connect with my Irish heritage. I’ve even had the incredible opportunity to compete at the Irish Dance World Championships on multiple occasions. Aside from dance, l’m also an avid lacrosse player. Sports have always been a significant part of my life, and lacrosse allows me to stay active and push myself both physically and mentally. When I’m not dancing or playing lacrosse, I cherish spending quality time with my loved ones. Family and friends mean the world to me, and I’m fortunate to have a close-knit family. I live with both my parents, my wonderful younger sister Alyssa, who is 13 years old, and our adorable dog Murphy. In fact, I’m proud to have a total of 14 first cousins with whom I share a special bond. Traveling and exploring new places is another passion of mine. I’ve been fortunate enough to travel internationally for dance competitions, and each trip has broadened my horizons and allowed me to make incredible memories. I find joy in meeting new people, experiencing different cultures, and embracing the beauty of the world around US. Moreover, I believe in giving back to my community. Dancing at retirement communities and interacting with children with special needs has been a rewarding experience for me. Being able to bring joy and create meaningful connections through dance is truly fulfilling. I’m excited for this opportunity to learn and grow in Ireland.

Sarah Kate Ryan Bio:

Hobbies & Interests: Irish Dance, Irish Music, Camogie, Reading and Traveling. Sarah Kate was the recipient of the 2018 Irish American Young Leaders Scholarship traveling to Limerick Ireland for the Fusion Fighters Summer Camp and performing on Fleadh TV. She has continued to be a phenomenal young leader always the first to step up and volunteer. She’s a born leader and mentor to young and old. We were delighted that she was chosen for the 2023 Mulcahy Scholarship. Sarah Kate is a 11th grade student at Tappan Zee High School. During her school year she is involved in youth court, Italian Club, Italian Honor Society, English Honor Society, SADD, Youth and government and Spring Track & Field. Outside of school Sarah Kate is a champion Irish dancer with the O’Riain Academy. She attended the Worlds of Irish Dance in Belfast with her ceili team. They received a recall and brought home a medal. Sarah Kate is a member of the Foroige Youth Group held at the GAA. She enjoys Camogie with Rockland GAA and hopes to get back to music in the fall. Over the summer Sarah Kate is interning at a law firm to gain more experience in her education. Sarah Kate loves her Irish culture and it plays a big part of who she is. County Wexford is very special to her and she is looking forward to picking fresh blackberries and making jam with Grandad again.