NYC Gazette

On March 16, 2024, the spirit of St. John’s University was proudly showcased at St. Patrick's Day parades in both New York City and Naples, FL. In New York City, a group of over 100 St. John’s University revelers participated in the historic St. Patrick's Day Parade, while in Naples, FL, St. John’s alumni joined in the festivities.

The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, dating back to 1762, is a longstanding tradition that draws nearly two million spectators annually. The St. John’s delegation, comprising students, faculty, administrators, staff, and alumni, received enthusiastic cheers from onlookers as they marched up Fifth Avenue. Bagpiper Robert P. Lynch, a St. John’s alumni, organized for high school bagpipers to join the procession, expressing his excitement for the students' exposure to such a memorable experience.

In Naples, FL, alumni of St. John’s donned white hats and paraded along Fifth Avenue South, adding to the vibrant celebration of Irish heritage and culture. The post-parade festivities included various events such as a golf outing, cocktail reception, sunset dinner cruise, and a brunch with a liturgy, bringing alumni together in a joyous reunion.

Reflecting on the day, Daniel Sullivan, a second-year History Major, expressed his delight as a first-time marcher, emphasizing the shared enthusiasm for Irish heritage among the St. John’s community and beyond.

The St. Patrick's Day parades not only served as a display of pride for St. John’s University but also as an opportunity for students to participate in the college-level research paper Scholarship Contest sponsored by the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration Committee. All St. John’s students are encouraged to partake in this contest, with the deadline for submissions set for April 11, 11 p.m.