Four Laois students were recognised for student contribution and academic excellence at the recent Carlow College, St. Patrick’s Conferring Ceremony for 2024.
Mary Osadolor and Sharon Gorman from Mountmellick, Michael O’Toole from Rathdowney and Hope Igie from Portarlington each received graduation prizes for achievements during their studies at Carlow College.
Hope Igie graduated with a BA (Hons) in Social, Political and Community Studies was presented with the James Fintan Lalor Student of the Year Award in recognition for academic excellence and all-round contribution to the College.
Speaking of her time at Carlow College, Hope said: “This degree has enhanced my abilities to advocate for vulnerable individuals and groups and provided me with the knowledge of several societal issues.”
Since finishing her studies, Hope has commenced studying a Masters of Social Science (Social Work) at Maynooth University.
When announcing the award, Programme Director for the BA (Hons) in Social, Political & Community Studies, Steph Hanlon, commented that Hope’s journey “embodied resilience and determination, overcoming challenges with grace and perseverance to thrive academically and personally, inspiring us all with her unwavering commitment to success despite adversity”.
Mary Osadolor graduated with a BA in Applied Social Studies (Professional Social Care) and received the Award for BA in Applied Social Studies (Professional Social Care) which is awarded to the student who has achieved a Distinction and first place on the degree.
Likewise, Sharon Gorman graduate with a BA in Applied Social Studies (Professional Social Care) and was awarded the Gerry Morgan Award in Applied Social Studies for Excellence in Practice Placement.
Graduate of the BA (Hons) in Arts & Humanities, Michael O’Toole, was awarded the Rev Dr John Cummins Interdisciplinary Prize.
Staff and students at Carlow College had a day of celebration for its Class of 2024 on Friday as 152 graduates – including 27 students from Laois – were conferred in the College’s graduation, which took place in Carlow Cathedral.
Michael Moriarty, well-known author and educator delivered the keynote address at the graduation.
Speaking of the ceremony, Dr Margaret Murphy, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Registrar of Carlow College said: “Today is a day of celebration for our new graduates and their families and friends.
“It is a proud day for the College and we applaud the achievements of the class of 2024.
“We look forward to hearing about the next stages in their journeys, whether that is in employment or further study.”
Carlow College President, Fr Conn Ó Maoldhomhnaigh warmly congratulated the graduates who come from 16 different counties across Ireland.
“As College President, it is my pleasure and privilege to acknowledge the exceptional achievements of all of our graduates.
“They have been part of our journey over the past three to four years and we wish them the very best as they continue on their own individual paths.”, said Fr Ó Maoldhomhnaigh
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