Business & Finance Awards 2025 : TK Whitaker Award Loretta Brennan Glucksman

Irish-American philanthropist Loretta Brennan Glucksman was presented with the 2025 TK Whitaker Award. The TK Whitaker Award was established in 2016 to mark the 100th birthday of Dr Thomas Kenneth (TK) Whitaker, the economist and civil servant credited with playing a pivotal role in Ireland’s economic development. The presentation of this award to Mrs Brennan Glucksman was particularly poignant as she knew TK Whitaker on a personal level and referred in her acceptance remarks to the importance of his friendship and the mentorship he had shown her when they had worked together in the past. Loretta Brennan Glucksman’s name is synonymous with an incredible contribution to Ireland’s cultural heritage, educational advancement, and peace-building efforts. Her tireless work, over decades, to establish strong ties between America and Ireland has made her one of the most influential figures in Irish-American relations today. Presenting the award, An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, said, “Loretta, this award, named for TK Whitaker, is symbolic of the way you yourself work; your discretion and your humility have been constant qualities as you have consistently and generously supported the island of Ireland and her people. “Over the years, you have hosted multiple Taoisigh and Irish Government ministers at your home during key moments and made introductions to key leaders in the Irish American community.” Adding to the warmth and personal atmosphere in the room, Loretta highlighted in her acceptance speech that three generations of her family had travelled with her to Ireland to accept the award and how special it was to her on a personal level.