St. Patrick's Day was kicked off with an exciting bang when over 50 Seton Hall students, faculty, alumni and friends marched down Fifth Avenue in celebration of their Irish culture and heritage.
PIPE, the Pirates of Irish Persuasion and Extraction, were invited to represent Seton Hall in the world famous New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade for the second year in a row.
After leaving the University and arriving in Manhattan, all participants proudly wore their Seton Hall sashes and marched behind the school banner.
Sophomore Erin Connelly, president of PIPE, said the day was very enjoyable.
"There is nothing like marching down Fifth Avenue on a brisk day, with hundreds of thousands of people lining the streets, cheering as we pass by," Connelly said. "We were able to meet new people and share a wonderful day celebrating both our Irish pride and Pirate pride."
Freshman and PIPE Secretary Mikaela Scanlon agreed.
"It was an overwhelming success," Scanlon said.
"Taking part in such a prestigious and world renowned event is one that will stay in all of our memories for the rest of our lives. The feeling one gets when marching down Fifth Avenue amongst screaming and energetic crowds is indescribable!"
There was plenty of planning that made the grand event possible. PIPE worked closely with Alumni Relations as well as Public Relations & Marketing on campus, receiving donations from the Seton Hall bookstore and University Events. Gourmet Dining Services also served holiday-themed lunches.
Seton Hall was invited back to the event after participating so enthusiastically last year, which is actually rare, Connelly said.
"Not everyone is extended an invite to participate." Connelly said.
Although the parade fell on a Monday this year, there were still plenty of Seton Hall community members excited to participate.
"Seton Hall has a large population of Irish students and Alumni, so finding enthusiastic supporters is not difficult." Connelly said.
Abbas Khan Cook can be reached at abbas.khancook@student.shu.edu.
