Achievements of Summerhill College pupils recognised at annual ceremony
THE annual awards ceremony to celebrate the many achievements in academic, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities of students in Summerhill was recently held at the college.
This hallmark event in the school's calendar serves as a platform to highlight the extraordinary accomplishments of those who have exhibited exceptional dedication, leadership, and talent throughout the academic year.
The ceremony was streamed live from the college gym to all classrooms, to parents and guardians and members of the alumni association. The ceremony opened with a prayer of blessing from the college chaplain, Ms Denise McCann.
In his Principal's Address, Mr Paul Keogh acknowledged the achievements of all the award winners, past and present, stating that ‘each person in the school is uniquely gifted and talented and that although only some are chosen for awards, all students have their unique talents that are encouraged and nurtured at Summerhill College.
The contribution the school makes locally, nationally and internationally was highlighted, and thanks was given for the many people who support, challenge and inspire Summerhill to be the best it can be. He reminded students that ‘their dedication to their study, their chosen sport, their pastime and voluntary work is truly inspirational'.
Thanks was extended to the staff of Summerhill who give countless extra hours to supporting the development of our students, as well as to the many people who support the college with time, finance and their expertise - most of whom do so in a voluntary capacity.
Mr Keogh welcomed Dr Conor Kenny (class of 2002) who was selected as Alumnus of the Year by the members of the Alumni Association, and was also guest speaker for the awards ceremony. Dr Kenny is currently based in London where he works as a General Practitioner.
After graduating from Summerhill, he earned a degree in physiotherapy and subsequently pursued a career in medicine. He has spent several years working in conflict zones with many NGOs including Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders). He currently supports the Summerhill Alumni as a decade chair, organises reunion events and serves as a mentor on the college Transition Year Mentoring Programme.
Dr. Kenny spoke to a captive audience and reflected fondly on his school days in Summerhill and outlined his early career. In an engaging and very well received address, his main message to the students starting their own pathway in life is that character and relationships are the most important currency. He stressed the importance of ‘taking
Mr Oliver Hamilton accepting the award for Best Leaving Certificate result on behalf of Jabob Hamilton. It was presented by Alumnus of the Year, Dr Conor Kenny.
Jay Branley (Junior Cycle Student of the Year) and deputy principal Ms Maura Murphy. responsibility for your lives and paving that path for yourselves because that truly is where fulfillment comes from'. Reflecting on his time as a student of the college, he said Summerhill showed him the importance of balancing the academic, sporting and social side of his life. It also taught him about ‘the philosophical side of things' and the need for a fulfilling life. Through medicine, he found avenues to explore the world, engage in writing, connect with exceptional individuals, and engage in a profession that he's deeply passionate about.
Dr Kenny then passionately conveyed to the students the boundless possibilities awaiting them, emphasising that they hold the power to accomplish anything and urging them never to never create any boundaries on their potential.
The MC for the afternoon Mr Anthony Flynn, then introduced the winners of the various awards and outlined their long list of achievements.
The final three awards; the Sportsperson of the Year award went to Dillon Walsh, Senior Student of the Year went to Darragh McDonagh and Dr. Conor Kenny was awarded the inaugural Alumnus of the Year award.
The ceremony concluded with a final thank you from head prefect Andrew Connell who, on behalf of the college, made a presentation to Dr Kenny.
Zach Gilligan (LCA Student of the Year) and deputy principal Mr Eoin Moriarty.
Francis Donoghue (Athlete of the Year, Patrick F Dolan Award)and Dr Conor Kenny.
Dillon Walsh ( Sports Person of the Year Award - Brig General Gerry Hegarty Trophy)and principal Mr Paul Keogh.