At Concordia University’s 19th Alumni Recognition Awards Banquet on 17 May 2010, Canadian Irish Studies Foundation Chair Brian O'Neill Gallery was recognized with an award from the Concordia University Alumni Association. Mr. Gallery, L BA 57, was awarded the Humberto Santos Award of Merit for his central role in the creation of the School of Canadian Irish Studies at Concordia.

Having served as Chair of the Canadian Irish Studies Foundation for the past 15 years, Mr. Gallery was the driving force behind the conception of the School of Canadian Irish Studies. His work led to the creation of a permanent endowment of more than $7 million to fund Canadian Irish Studies courses, lectures and scholarships.

Gallery, right, is pictured with Canadian Irish Studies Foundation Vice-Chair John M. Little, Concordia President and Vice-Chancellor Judith Woodsworth, and Nancy Gallery.