Kathy O’Neill

Associate, Programs and Leadership 

Kathy O’Neill is a proud New Jersey native (because someone has to be!) with a background in public relations and marketing, large scale special events production, print and TV editorial and production, and community outreach.

Kathy spent 16 years at the Irish American Heritage Center before a COVID layoff. She quickly pivoted to food pantry operations, outreach and grants writing with Irving Park Community Food Pantry on Chicago’s Northwest Side.

Kathy’s career has taken her from the Communications program at Glassboro State College to an editorial position at New Jersey Monthly, facilities management at the Democratic National Convention and editorial and production positions at ABC News World News Tonight with Peter Jennings, Nightline, 20/20 and Good Morning America.

Kathy serves on the Governance Board of the Irish American Hall of Fame and Na Gaeil Irish Language Club. She is the recipient of a 2021 Greater Chicago Food Depository Pandemic Hero Award. In her free time, Kathy participates in Chicago’s vibrant open mic storytelling scene, telling tales to anyone who will listen.