Honoring the Legacy of Dr. John Young
March 23, 1946 - June 29, 2026
~ Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. ~
Dr. Young's Vision
Every great organization begins with a vision.
For the Irish American Business Alliance of North Carolina, that vision belonged to Dr. John Young.
John believed that the relationship between Ireland and North Carolina held enormous potential, not only through our shared heritage, but through business, innovation, education, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange. He recognized that stronger relationships create greater opportunities and that there was a need for an organization dedicated to fostering those connections for generations to come. That vision became the Irish American Business Alliance of North Carolina.
A Vision Becomes Reality
In 2023, John brought together a group of business and community leaders who shared his belief that collaboration could strengthen the ties between Ireland and North Carolina. Through his leadership, encouragement, and unwavering commitment, IABA was established with a clear purpose: to create meaningful connections that support business growth, encourage investment, promote educational partnerships, and celebrate the enduring friendship between our two communities.
John possessed a rare ability to bring people together. He believed in the power of relationships and understood that lasting partnerships are built on trust, integrity, and shared purpose. His thoughtful leadership and quiet determination inspired those around him and laid the foundation upon which IABA continues to grow.
A Lifetime of Service
John’s commitment to the Irish community extended far beyond The Alliance.
As Honorary Consul of Ireland in North Carolina, he worked tirelessly to strengthen the bonds between Ireland and his adopted home. Through decades of service, he welcomed Irish companies, supported cultural initiatives, encouraged educational collaboration, and championed opportunities that enriched both communities.
Whether serving as a business owner, community leader, mentor, or advocate for Ireland, John approached every role with humility, generosity, and a genuine desire to help others. To him, leadership was always about creating opportunities and building a stronger community.
His Enduring Legacy
The success of The Alliance is a testament to John’s vision. Every relationship we foster, every partnership we create, and every opportunity we help develop between Ireland and North Carolina reflects the purpose that inspired our founding. John’s influence lives on through the people he brought together, the organization he helped create, and the countless lives he touched through his friendship, encouragement, and service. His legacy is not only found in the history of The Alliance, but it is reflected in its future.
Carrying the Vision Forward
Following John’s passing in June 2026, the Board of Directors established this page to honour our Founding Chairman and preserve the story of his remarkable contribution to the Irish American Business Alliance of North Carolina. As we continue to grow, we do so with gratitude for John’s leadership and with a shared commitment to the vision he entrusted to us.
We remain dedicated to strengthening the relationship between Ireland and North Carolina through business, education, innovation, culture, and community - continuing the work that John so passionately believed in.
To sign the guest book, extend your condolences to the family, send flowers, or plant a tree in his memory, please visit The Charlotte Observer.