At the Annual General Meeting of the IAAS on April 28th, Dr Dara Downey stepped down from the Executive Committee upon the completion of her term as Vice Chair. Dara has been a central figure in promoting and developing the activities of the association over many years and her contribution to American Studies in Ireland is greatly appreciated. In her time on the Executive Committee, Dara has served as an Ordinary Committee member, as Treasurer, and as Vice Chair. She also served on the editorial board of the Irish Journal for American Studies. During her term as Vice Chair, Dara oversaw a significant reorganisation of the Prizes Subcommittee and of the many bursaries the association awards. A supportive and encouraging colleague, as well as a stellar academic, we wish Dara all the best in her future endeavours!