Recap: Welsh MP Delegation Pennsylvania Visit 

From November 17–19, a delegation of six Welsh Members of Parliament representing the Welsh Affairs Select Committee travelled to Pittsburgh and Greater Philadelphia to explore innovation, technology, and the Welsh diaspora across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Their visit highlighted the enduring influence of Wales in the region while underscoring emerging opportunities for collaboration across education, industry, and civic life. READ MORE 

The program began in Pittsburgh, where the MPs toured Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning, and several private-sector companies. These visits offered a firsthand look at how the city has transformed its historic coal and steel legacy into a foundation for modern industrial innovation, advanced research, and innovative technological development. 

From there, the delegation continued to the Greater Philadelphia region. Their day began with a visit to Vishay in Malvern, a semiconductor manufacturer with Welsh origins. The meeting provided an opportunity to display the company’s global footprint and continued growth in Pennsylvania while reflecting on the enduring business connections between Wales and the area. 

The delegation travelled to British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia member, Bucks County Community College to celebrate its new partnership with Wrexham University, an exciting development in educational exchange and Welsh investment. At Bucks, the MPs met with key stakeholders in the partnership, including representatives of the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia, Senator Steve Santarsiero, staff from the office of Representative Joe Hogan, and students from Bucks’ School of Business. 

The event opened with remarks from Patrick Jones, President & CEO of Bucks County Community College, who welcomed all attendees and expressed sincere gratitude to the distinguished guests visiting from Wales. Patrick offered an overview of the many initiatives underway at Bucks, emphasizing the college’s mission to serve the needs of the local community and how that mission aligns with its expanding international presence. He then introduced Professor Joe Yates, Vice Chancellor of Wrexham University, who spoke about the origins of the partnership, its development from early conversations to formal collaboration, and his deep appreciation for the new pathways it creates for students at both institutions. This agreement, he noted, elevates the global visibility of both Wrexham and Bucks. 

After lunch and engaging conversations among guests from across sectors and backgrounds, Patrick introduced the architects of the partnership: Tracy Timby, Vice President for Workforce and Strategic Partnerships at Bucks, and Greg Luce, Dean of Business, Innovation, and Legal Studies. Tracy and Greg discussed the practical impact of the Wrexham–Bucks partnership, noting its affordability for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree, its casual yet enthusiastic beginnings, and its future expansion plans—including potential opportunities in healthcare, arts and sciences, and engineering. They answered a big question for MPs; “Why Wrexham?” and allowed opportunities for MPs and guests to ask additional questions about this innovative transfer agreement.  

To close the program, Wrexham MP Andrew Ranger and Select Committee Chair Ruth Jones MP offered final remarks. They presented a Welsh gift to the college as a symbol of partnership, appreciation, and continued friendship. Following photos and warm goodbyes, the MPs joined President Jones for a tour of the campus before departing for Center City. 

The delegation concluded their visit to the region with a brief but meaningful Welsh flag celebration on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway alongside BABCPHL and City of Philadelphia representatives. Many thanks to our corporate members; Welsh Government, British Consulate General New York and educational, arts and charitable institution member; Buck’s County Community College for their continued partnership and support. Congratulations to all involved on a successful and flawless parliamentary visit. 

Click here to view photos.