Rockland Community College Celebrates Irish Heritage, Jewish Heritage and Women’s History Month

Rockland Community College (RCC) is celebrating the vibrant cultures and stories that shape our community with Irish Heritage, Jewish Heritage, and Women’s History Month. Each celebration features unique events and programs honoring tradition, achievement, and the spirit of inclusion.

“Rockland Community College is proud to celebrate the diverse cultures and histories that shape our community. By honoring Irish Heritage, Jewish Heritage, and Women’s History Month, we strengthen our commitment to inclusion, learning, and unity. We invite everyone to join us in these celebrations and to embrace the spirit of understanding that defines RCC,” said Dr. William P.. Mullaney, President of Rockland Community College.

Irish Heritage Month at RCC features performances, film, lectures, and cultural demonstrations that honor Ireland’s vibrant traditions. The Robert Flynn Irish Heritage Festival highlights music, storytelling, and theater, including the beloved Irish Coffee House and a screening of In the Name of the Father.

The Thomas J. Moran Crossroads Ceili returns with live music, dance, and audience participation, along with fiber-spinning demonstrations on the history of Irish wool and linen production.

Thursday, March 5, 7:00 pm EST

Celebration of Irish Culture: Film Night – In the Name of the Father (1993)

Based on the real story of the Guildford Four, the film follows a young Irishman who is wrongfully accused of an IRA bombing and, along with his father, endures years of injustice and imprisonment while fighting to clear his name. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/celebration-of-irish-culture-film-night/

Tuesday, March 17, 12:30 pm EDT

The Annual John R. Maloney Irish Coffee House and Conversation

The Irish Coffee House is a relaxed midday gathering celebrating creativity and community. Join us for an hour of poetry, music, humor, and food. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/irish-coffee-house/

Thursday, March 19, 3:00 pm EDT

Celebration of Irish Culture: Film Discussion – In the Name of the Father (1993)

In honor of Irish Heritage month, the Visual and Performing Arts department will host a film talkback in celebration of Irish heritage. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/celebration-of-irish-culture-film-discussion/

Wednesday, March 25, 7:00 pm EDT

The Thomas J. Moran - Crossroads Ceili

This event will feature performances in the form of song and dance, celebrating Irish Culture! There may even be some audience participation requested! Featured performers will be the Contemporary Music Ensemble, playing songs by contemporary Irish artists. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/crossroads-ceili/

Tuesday, March 31, 11:00 am EDT

Staged Reading in Celebration of Irish Culture – The Beauty Queen of Leenane by Martin McDonagh

A staged reading of The Beauty Queen of Leenane by Martin McDonagh. Set in a remote village in County Galway, the play centers on the explosive relationship between a lonely woman and her domineering mother, where sharp humor masks deep resentment and longing. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/staged-reading-in-celebration-of-irish-culture/

Jewish Heritage Month welcomes the community to engage with the depth and diversity of Jewish culture through programs centered on community, learning, humor, and tradition. Events include a laughter workshop exploring the role of humor in Jewish resilience, a Jewish food tasting that highlights traditional flavors, a Shabbat dinner focused on reflection and community building, and hands-on arts activities inspired by Jewish symbolism and storytelling. A Songs of the Seder workshop will also guide participants through the music and meanings of Passover.

Thursday, March 5, 12:15 pm EDT

Laughter Workshop with Esther Rachel Russell

A staged reading of The Beauty Queen of Leenane by Martin McDonagh. Set in a remote village in County Galway, the play centers on the explosive relationship between a lonely woman and her domineering mother, where sharp humor masks deep resentment and longing. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/laughter-workshop/

Thursday, March 19, 12:15 pm EDT

The Jewish Dish of Your Wish: Jewish Food Contest & Tasting Event

Celebrate the rich flavors of Jewish cuisine. Sample traditional and modern dishes, learn about the cultural stories behind them, and cast your vote for your favorites. Whether you’re competing or just tasting, this is a delicious way to experience heritage. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/jewish-food-contest-tasting-event/

Friday, March 20, 7:00 pm EDT

Community Shabbat Dinner

Experience the warmth and meaning of Shabbat in a welcoming campus setting. Enjoy a traditional meal, learn about the customs and blessings, and connect with students and colleagues in a relaxed, meaningful environment. All are welcome—no prior experience needed. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/community-shabbat-dinner/

Tuesday, March 24, 12:15 pm EDT

Passover Art Workshop with Gila

Create something meaningful while learning about Jewish symbols and traditions. This hands-on craft experience is a fun and creative way to explore culture and history https://sunyrockland.edu/event/jewish-cultural-craft-event/

Thursday, March 26, 12:30 pm EDT

Songs of the Seder with Singer, Songwriter Mendy Weinreb

Discover the powerful music of Passover. This interactive session explores the songs of the Seder, their history, and their significance. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/songs-of-the-seder/

RCC celebrates Women’s History Month with the theme “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” Throughout the month, RCC will spotlight both historic and contemporary women whose achievements have advanced science, education, the arts, public service, finance, healthcare, and other key fields. Women’s History Month is both a celebration of these contributions and a reminder of the ongoing need for equity and opportunity.

Wednesday, March 4, 10:00 am EDT

Frankenstein and the Woman Who Created a Monster

Dr. Roth will discuss the origins and influence of Frankenstein, Mary Shelley’s role in proto-feminist thought, and the novel’s warning about tampering with nature. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/frankenstein-and-the-woman-who-created-a-monster/

Thursday, March 19, 9:30 AM EDT

Protecting the Environment in the Empire State: 1960s & 1970s https://sunyrockland.edu/event/protecting-the-environment-in-the-empire-state/

Thursday, March 19, 11:00 am EDT

Anna Atkins & The Cynanotype

In this presentation, we will learn about Anna Atkins whose cyanotypes of British algae formed the first photobook. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/anna-atkins-the-cyanotype/

Thursday, March 19, 12:30 pm EDT

Water and a World’s Welfare: Ms. Erica Michaels Brown on her role in the effort

In large and medium cities across the United States, water utilities are anchor institutions. On the global stage, the sustainable management of water and sanitation for all is a United Nations sustainable development goal. Ms. Brown will share about the ripple effect she has witnessed through a career in the water sector – where passion meets public good and protects the planet. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/water-and-a-worlds-welfare/

Tuesday, March 24, 1:00 pm EDT

Women's History Month Student Art Showcase Opening Reception

Exhibit of infographic posters created by graphic design students and cyanotype photographic prints by photography students. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/womens-history-month-student-art-showcase-opening-reception/

Wednesday, March 25, 1:30 pm EDT

Women Who Led the Way: Nursing Innovators Who Created Lasting Change

This presentation explores how pioneering women in nursing led transformative change in health care through innovation, advocacy, and leadership, creating lasting impact across generations. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/women-who-lead-the-way/

Tuesday, March 31, 12:30 pm EDT

Women and Finance: Importance of Financial Planning and Investing

Learn about the importance of financial planning and investing for women. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/women-and-finance-importance-of-financial-planning-and-investing/

About Rockland Community College, State University of New York

Founded in 1959, Rockland Community College (RCC) provides students with a high-quality education that is both affordable and accessible. The College offers 35 degree and 3 certificate programs, and a faculty that includes Fulbright scholars and SUNY Distinguished Professors.

In addition to its main campus in Suffern, RCC operates a Hospitality and Culinary Arts Center in Nyack, and its Automotive Technology Center in Orangeburg. For more information about RCC, please visit sunyrockland.edu.