Mary O’Mahony Mulcahy was born in the Kingsbridge section of the Bronx to Simon and Joan O’Mahony. She was later raised in Oakland, New Jersey alongside her four siblings, Kevin, Jeanne, Claire, and Tracy. Mary graduated from Indian Hills High School in Oakland. After graduating high school, Mary earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from East Stroudsburg University. She furthered her studies at Teachers College, Columbia University, obtaining a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. While at Teachers College, Mary was invited to contribute as an author to the book, Lessons in Literacy, published by Teachers College Press. She also facilitated several workshops at Teachers college focusing on Literacy Development.
Mary’s professional life was devoted to education, a calling she embraced wholeheartedly. She began her career at St. Mary’s in Pompton Lakes and later continued her career in Glen Rock, New Jersey, where she taught first and second grade for 30 years. Those years remain among the most meaningful of her life. Teaching young children is both a privilege and a responsibility, and she was continually inspired by their honesty, resilience, and joy! Mary believed then, and still does, that education is about more than academics; it is about helping children feel valued, capable, and loved. The relationships formed with students, families, and colleagues left a lasting imprint on her heart and shaped who she is today.
Mary is deeply committed to organizations that celebrate Irish heritage and community service. She is a member of the LAOH Division 3 and the Rockland County LAOH. She served as the chairperson for the Charities Committee and Scholarship Committee for LAOH Division 3 and was a participant and a committee member for the fundraiser, “Dancing Like the Stars”. Mary also served as the chairperson of the Emerald Ball for many years and as chairperson for the Mission and Charities committee for the Rockland County LAOH. In addition, Mary is a dedicated member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 329.
One of Mary’s most meaningful volunteer experiences was with Lourdes Kids of Rockland as a helper for the American Special Children’s Pilgrimage Group. She accompanied special needs pilgrims on trips to Lourdes, France, for two years, and to the Marian Shrine for a modified pilgrimage after the COVID pandemic. Visiting Lourdes, the site of St. Bernadette’s vision of the Blessed Mother, was deeply moving for Mary. Witnessing the faith, courage, and joy of pilgrims from around the world was humbling and life changing, and remains one of the greatest blessings of her life. Becoming involved with the Lourdes Kids of Rockland also brought Mary into a beautiful friendship with Ciaran Green. Ciaran believed in kindness, acceptance, and love. He believed all of us are equal in the eyes of God and that each of us has a purpose—we are all here “For a Reason.” Although his time on this earth was short, his impact was powerful, and his presence continues to encourage and bless so many!
Mary’s faith is the cornerstone of who she is. She served as a Eucharistic Minister and Lector at St. Margaret’s Church in Pearl River, allowing her to give back to her parish community. A scripture that has guided her throughout her life is Proverbs 3:5: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” This verse was often repeated by her mother during difficult moments, and it continues to bring Mary peace and direction.
Mary has been married to Michael Mulcahy for 38 years, and together they raised two sons, Michael and Kevin. She was blessed this past year with her first grandchild, Aoibhin Maria Mulcahy. She treasures every moment with her and looks forward with excitement and gratitude to the many adventures that lie ahead!
Mary’s Irish heritage has played a significant role in shaping her values and faith. Her father, Simon O’Mahony, and mother, Joan Jordan O’Mahony, came from County Clare and County Cork, and they passed down a strong sense of faith and love of family. Mary was also deeply influenced by her husband’s grandmother, Elsie Dunleavy, a strong Irish woman whose deep Catholic faith and quiet strength left a lasting impression.
Mary believes in taking of care of both body and spirit. Fitness and wellness have become a big part of her life, providing balance, friendship, and accomplishment. She has completed the West Point Triathlon, the Long Beach Island Triathlon, the Team KJ Pearl River Duathlon, several half marathons, and many 5k races. One of her proudest achievements was crossing the finish line of the New York City Marathon in 2017. Beyond fitness, these experiences have given her the gift of a close circle of running friends who have become a cherished part of her life.
Being named Hibernian of the Year is an honor Mary accepts with gratitude, seeing it as a reflection of the people, friendships, and community she holds dear. As the Irish say, it’s the people beside you who make the journey meaningful, and Mary is grateful every day for those who have walked it with her.