BOHER AWARDS
ONE of the highpoints of the school year was celebrated at Boherbue Comprehensive last Thursday evening when students were honoured at the annual prize-giving ceremony.
Addressing the large audience, Principal Mary O’Keeffe said: “We are not here just to acknowledge our brightest and best, but also the people who make this school a better place through their extra curricular and charity work”.
Guest of honour was former pupil Dr Frank O’Connor, a native of Kiskeam, but now based in Cardiff. The principal described Frank as a pioneering eco-designer with a passion for sustainability. “Frank has always had a passion for environmental issues and their relationship with design. He has worked with the UN and the European Commission, been a special advisor to the Welsh Government, and has given testimony to the House of Lords Committee on eco issues,” Mary added.
In reply, Frank remarked that it’s not often he’s stuck for words but preparing this speech was far more daunting than presenting a talk at the UN or meeting the queen! “2015 is the Year of Irish Design so it’s an extra timely return,” he said. “Doing what I believe in has taken me across the world, working in all of the major continents.
I’ve met heads of state, including the queen, advised the UN, the European Commission as well as numerous national governments, businesses, educational institutes and charities. I’ve also set up and established a successful international non-profit research organisation, presented evidence at the House of Lords, and won a few awards along the way.
“Most importantly of all, I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing people from so many diverse cultures and backgrounds. I’ve followed my heart every step of the way believing I can change things for the better. Not too bad for someone who was bored and restless in school and had no idea what to do with their life!”
He told the students that he believed that each one of them is capable of great things if they truly believe in themselves. “Anything is possible,” he added. “You are the future! Do try to have a positive impact but make sure you have fun along the way”.
Dan Murphy Life & Pensions, who sponsored the awards, congratulated the students and said they should be very proud of their achievements, a sentiment that was echoed by board chairman Pat Favier, who also acknowledged the work done by the organising committee.
The Student of the Year Award went to John Paul Breen from Kiskeam, who was presented with the Nellie O’Connor Memorial Cup. John Paul was commended for his positive personality and good humour, along with his outstanding work ethic and his willingness to help the younger students.
The Corn an Runaí award recipient was Matthew Collins from Ballydesmond. This accolade goes to the student who, across Fifth Year, is deemed to have shown courtesy, co-operation, commitment, dedication, endeavour, and enterprise.
Best 2014 Leaving Cert results award went to Louise Fitzgerald from Boherbue, while Kate O’Gorman, Marie O’Gorman and Eva O’Leary received the award for best Junior Cert.
A whole host of awards also went to the Senior and Junior School winners, Transition Year students, and those who shone in Sports, Mentoring, Music, Fundraising, Drama, Creative Writing, Gaisce Awards, and students who helped on the Lourdes Pilgrimages.
The awards ceremony was co-ordinated by Treasa O’Reilly, and further enhanced by musical contributions from Aoife Clifford and Megan Kiely, and a drama sketch from Vincent and Ronan Kiely.
(see page 30 also)