My name is Kelley Leyden, 28, and I am honoured to represent Chicago and its Irish community at the 2023 Rose of Tralee International Festival.
I am a full-time Chicago police officer and a part-time radiologic technologist, so my work can be challenging. However, I find it very rewarding.
I volunteer for Misericordia, Knights of Columbus and Chicago's Polar Plunge. I am a member of the Young Irish Fellowship Club, Chicago's Gaelic Park, and the Emerald Society.
In 2022, I was awarded the Superintendent's Award of Tactical Excellence, and my professional goal is to one day be a detective. Also, in 2022, I was Queen for Chicago's St Patrick's Day Parade.
My mother is from Cobh, Co Cork and my paternal grandparents hail from counties Kerry and Clare. So, I grew up surrounded by proud Irish people who instilled in me a strong level of pride in my Irish heritage.
My hobbies include swimming, kayaking, Pilates, and travel. I have an adventurous side that includes skydiving and parasailing. Whitewater rafting and biplane aerobatics may be next!
I am looking forward to meeting my fellow Roses and making wonderful memories and new friendships in Tralee.
