Laois student receives Memorial Scholarship Award at Ceremony in DCU

Laois student Illan Dunne was presented with a memorial scholarship award by Dublin City University at a ceremony to celebrate memorial and endowed scholarships on Wednesday 1st March.

In total, 44 students received awards named in honour of individuals and organisations who have played a key role in the life of Dublin City University and Irish society. 

Illan Dunne from Mountmellick, a former student of Portlaoise College who is currently completing a degree in Economics, Politics and Law at DCU was presented with the Maureen O’Farrell Memorial Scholarship.

Originally a trained nurse, Maureen O’Farrell focused her energies on her family for much of her life. She was an ardent believer in social justice and the power of education and impressed those values on her three sons.

This scholarship in support of the DCU Access Programme was established in 2022 by her family to honour her memory and passion for education. 

Speaking at the event, Joe Quinsey, CEO of DCU Educational Trust commented: “Memorial and endowed scholarships make a lasting contribution to the university’s mission to transform lives and societies. By creating opportunities for
doctoral research and opening a door for talented students to excel, thes scholarships help bright young people to fulfil their potential and make their mark on the future.”

The 44 scholarship recipients were selected based on different criteridepending on the wishes of those who created the scholarship. These include undergraduate students supported by DCU’s Access Programme, postgraduate students in the fields of Biotechnology, Chemistry, Marketing, Law and Journalism, and students with outstanding sporting achievements.