Irish involvement and extra-curricular activities. Miss Smiling Irish Eyes has come to represent the Irish spirit. Each year a young woman is chosen who truly embodies and exhibits the Irish spirit – the young woman is a leader, hard-working, embraces her Irish culture and heritage, and represents the thousands of Irish Americans who have worked hard to shape Pittsburgh throughout the years. Bridget was one of nearly 30 qualified and impressive applicants, and was chosen based upon her academic and athletic careers, her leadership experience, her public service, and her involvement with the Irish Community of Pittsburgh. As part of the application process, Bridget submitted an essay which chronicled her Irish past and lifestyle and what being Irish means to her on St. Patrick’s Day but also throughout the year. Bridget serves as the President of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians Junior Division 23 and has been a member with a leadership role since the age of 7. Bridget has won praise nationally for her work with the Junior Division. In addition to serving as and being honored as parade royalty, Bridget will also travel to Northern Ireland in August to represent Pittsburgh in the Maiden of the Mournes Festival in Warrenpointe. This is an international festival centered around an international personality competition that Bridget will enter on Pittsburgh’s City’s behalf.