In Memory of Bernadette & John Galaba
Bernadette and John Galaba were beloved members of our community who, until their passing in 2007 and 2008 respectively, wholeheartedly championed the Center for Irish Music and its mission to hand down traditional Irish music to future generations.
Bernadette was born in Glenamaddy, County Galway, Ireland and later moved to the United States where she met and married John. After raising three children on the East Coast, the Galabas moved to the Twin Cities and quickly became energetic participants at Irish cultural events in the area.
Through her life-long passion for embroidery, Bernadette designed and created intricate Irish solo dance dresses for many local dancers. Her business, Celtic Embroidery, provided beautiful embroidery work that is still worn and displayed at Irish events in the Twin Cities. Bernadette often helped promote local Irish events and was quick to donate loaves of soda bread for fundraisers. Bernadette and John were especially supportive of activities that connected younger generations with traditional Irish music.
After Bernadette’s passing in 2007, a memorial event and and financial aid fund were created to honor her generous spirit and love of Irish music. Because Bernadette had the desire, but not the means, to study Irish music as a child, family and friends wished for this fund to support students who needed tuition assistance. When John passed just one year later, the fund was expanded to include gifts in his memory as well.
The enthusiastic outpouring of support for this financial aid fund has been a great testament to John and Bernadette and all that they shared with the Twin Cities Irish community.
Apply for Financial Aid
For more information about financial aid and how to apply for tuition assistance, please review the CIM Financial Aid page.