Kearns named to Irish Echo's '40 under 40 Awards' list

MAHOPAC, N.Y.—Carmel Town Councilman Robert Kearns has been recognized on the Irish Echo's 2025 “Irish 40 Under 40 Awards" list, which honors influential individuals of Irish heritage.

According to the Echo’s website, the 40 Under 40 “is a celebration of Irish and Irish Americans who have distinguished themselves in their respective fields of work before reaching the age of 40. Our 'Top 40 Under 40' [spotlights] the up-and-coming leaders of Irish America from around the nation who work in a variety of fields and occupations.”

Kearns, a 32-year-old Mahopac resident who joined the Town Board in 2024, shared with the Echo that he still has relatives in Ireland.

“I embrace my Irish heritage by asking my relatives about their history,” he said. “Many of my family members still live in Ireland, and they keep us up to date. I am also a proud member of the Friends of Saint Patrick.”

In addition to serving on the Town Board, Kearns, a decorated Navy veteran, works as a senior operations manager at Pierotti Corp. and is actively involved in local veterans' affairs. Having served in the Middle East and Africa, he now holds the position of vice commander of the Mahopac VFW.

“I have mastered the art of time management,” Kearns told the Echo, noting that he balances his professional and volunteer duties with “raising three young children [and] coaching football.”

In a profile accompanying Kearns’ award, the Irish Echo highlighted his achievements, noting that he is the youngest person to ever serve on the Carmel Town Board and is “a dedicated family man committed to public service.”

“Known for his leadership, he has consistently inspired those around him through his community involvement and dedication to improving the lives of others. In 2019, he was honored as the U.S. Navy Sailor of the Year, a testament to his outstanding service,” the Echo stated. “In 2024, Robert was awarded the NYS Young Republicans Rising Star for his exceptional contributions to his community and his leadership in local politics.”

The 18th annual awards ceremony will take place on Feb. 28 in New York City.

Read the full interview at https://www.irishecho.com/events/2025-irish-40-under-40-awards/awardees/robert-kearns.