Students and teachers from Thomond Community College have returned from a memorable trip to Limerick sister city, Santa Clara in sunny California.
Sister Cities International was established by American President Dwight Eisenhower in 1956, as an organisation that could be a hub of peace and prosperity. By creating bonds between people from different cities around the world, it seeks to create relationships based on cultural, educational, information and trade exchanges.
During their visit to the heart of Silicon Valley the 12 students were hosted by two local High Schools – Santa Clara and Adrian Wilcox. The novel experience of attending and participating in school classes was further enhanced when students had the opportunity to savour the excitement of a homecoming parade and two inter-varsity football games.
A wealth of educational experiences were enjoyed by the Limerick visitors including the Tech Museum of Innovation in San Jose; the Computer History Museum, which explores the computing revolution and its impact on society; the NASA Ames Research Centre and the Intel Museum.
A visit to Google headquarters with John and Helen Hartnett of the Irish Technology Leadership Group demonstrated the immense opportunities available through careers in the high tech industry. It’s no surprise that Santa Clara has adopted as its catchphrase -“the centre of what’s possible”!
On the sporting front, the Thomond Community College visitors enjoyed a private tour of Levi Stadium, home of the 49ers football team, and an NHL game with the San Jose Sharks ice-hockey team in their home stadium.
A highlight for all involved was an action packed day spent in San Francisco incorporating the world famous Golden Gate Bridge; the fascinating Alcatraz Island, a former State Penitentiary; Union Square and a thrilling ride on a cable car!
Limerick City and County Council Director of Service Kieran Lehane said that Limerick and Santa Clara, California have been Sister Cities for a number of years and a key feature of the relationship between the two cities has been the link created between secondary schools in Limerick and High Schools in Santa Clara.
“This strong connection, built over the past decade, was reinforced by staff and students from Thomond Community College who were given a wonderful welcome by the City Council of Santa Clara, the Sister Cities Organisation, the School District, Wilcox and Santa Clara High Schools and host families.
“Following this excellent trip, there is a promise of a return visit from Santa Clara and we here in Limerick look forward to returning the amazing kindness and courtesy shown by all involved,” Mr Lehane added.
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