The US-Ireland Alliance has removed the name of former Senator George Mitchell from its scholarship program. This decision follows the emergence of evidence linking him to the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted child sexual abuser.
Scholarship Program Rebranded
The George J Mitchell Scholarship, established in 1998, sends US postgraduate students to Irish universities for a year of study. It was created to honor Senator Mitchell, now 92, for his role in chairing the talks that led to the Good Friday Agreement.
Recent releases of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein revealed emails between Senator Mitchell’s assistants and Epstein, appearing to arrange meetings in 2010 and 2013. These emails suggest contact between the two men after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor – a fact Senator Mitchell had previously stated was not the case.
Alliance Response
Founder and president of the US-Ireland Alliance, Trina Vargo, stated the decision to remove Senator Mitchell’s name allows the organization to focus on its core mission: strengthening ties between the US and the island of Ireland. Ms. Vargo emphasized that the program’s achievements and commitment to its scholars remain unchanged.
The scholarship program is currently paused while the Alliance seeks to build an endowment. In the interim, scholars will be referred to as US-Ireland Alliance Scholars. Ms. Vargo indicated that updates to the program’s branding will occur after consultations with stakeholders, including alumni, the Irish Government, and supporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the name change?
The US-Ireland Alliance removed Senator Mitchell’s name due to newly released evidence suggesting contact between him and Jeffrey Epstein after Epstein’s 2008 conviction, despite previous denials of such contact.
What is the status of the scholarship program?
The scholarship program is currently paused as the US-Ireland Alliance works to raise an endowment. The Alliance is consulting with stakeholders before updating official program materials.
What will the scholarships be called in the short term?
The Alliance will refer to the scholars as the US-Ireland Alliance Scholars for the time being.
How will organizations balance honoring historical figures with acknowledging new information that may tarnish their legacy?
