President’s Awards: Twenty-four students celebrated for contributions to UCD campus life

As Auditor of DanceSoc, Abigail Sykes has transformed the society, increasing membership by over a third and doubling the number of competitive dancers and classes. She has fostered an inclusive community where students of all abilities feel welcome. 

Abigail’s leadership extends beyond the society, as she spearheaded a fundraising initiative that raised over €3,000 for charity last semester.

Her commitment to making DanceSoc a home for all students has left a lasting impact on UCD’s dance community.

Andrea has demonstrated outstanding leadership across multiple student organisations, including VetSoc, the Mature Students Society, and SVECCS. 

Through VetPal, she has played a key role in mentoring and supporting students in clinical skills. Her commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment has made a lasting impact on the veterinary student community. 

Andrea’s ability to balance rigorous academic commitments with student mentorship showcases her dedication to both her peers and the future of veterinary medicine.

A dedicated leader, Aoife McEvoy revitalised the Nursing and Midwifery Society, bringing it back to full strength. She has served as Events Officer and Auditor, growing the society’s membership while balancing placement responsibilities. 

As a class representative for multiple years and a volunteer at Barretstown, Aoife has shown exceptional dedication to student life and welfare, embodying the spirit of leadership and service. 

Her infectious positivity and resilience have helped create a stronger, more connected nursing and midwifery community at UCD.

Aoife has been a driving force in UCD’s Orienteering and Mountaineering Clubs, serving as captain and co-captain of orienteering while holding key leadership roles in
mountaineering. 

She has revitalised the orienteering club, introducing beginner-friendly initiatives and leading both clubs towards greater inclusivity and participation. Her dedication has strengthened these communities while also earning her national-level success in orienteering competitions. 

Aoife’s enthusiasm for adventure and dedication to mentoring new members have made her an irreplaceable leader in both clubs.

Ciara’s contributions to student welfare are remarkable. As a Mental Health Campaigns Coordinator in the Students’ Union, a Peer Mentor, and a key member of the LGBTQ+ Society, she has worked tirelessly to support students. 

Her compassionate leadership extends beyond campus through her volunteering at Barretstown, where she provides comfort and joy to children and families. 

Ciara’s ability to create safe, supportive spaces has made UCD a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

Cillian played a pivotal role in reviving the Mechanical Engineering Society, growing it to over 300 members. 

As a long-standing class representative and former Engineering & Architecture College Officer, he has been instrumental in improving student representation, advocating for module reform and enhancing student engagement initiatives. 

Cillian’s leadership has left a lasting impact on both the society and student governance at UCD. His dedication to engineering student life ensures that future generations will continue to benefit from the structures he has helped put in place.

Conni has been a tireless advocate for Landscape Architecture students, ensuring their representation in the Students’ Union and within university committees. 

She has championed accessibility, field trip funding, and curriculum improvements while mentoring younger students to engage in student governance. 

Conni’s advocacy has empowered students in underrepresented disciplines to have their voices heard and their concerns addressed at the highest levels.

As captain of the UCD Sigerson Team and vice-captain of the Roscommon Senior Team, Daire has excelled in leadership on and off the field. 

A graduate sports scholar, he has also represented UCD at national events, promoting UCD Agricultural Science and UCD GAA through media and outreach initiatives. 

Daire’s talent for inspiring teammates and younger students has made him a key figure in both academics and sports.

Ellen has transformed the UCD Sustainability Society into a thriving organisation with over 500 members. 

She has led initiatives such as the Sustainability Ball, beach clean-ups, and climate action campaigns while also contributing to university-wide sustainability efforts as a Research Assistant and student leader. 

Ellen’s innovative approach to environmental activism has encouraged a generation of students to engage in sustainability initiatives across campus.

A dedicated environmental advocate, Erin has led sustainability initiatives through the Students’ Union and the Sustainability Society. 

She has organised climate action events, voter registration drives, and collaborations with UCD Global and Green Campus, inspiring a more environmentally conscious student community. 

Erin’s ability to connect policy with activism has had a measurable impact on UCD’s sustainability efforts.

As Co-Editor of the College Tribune, Hannah has shaped student journalism at UCD, interviewing prominent figures and contributing to national publications. 

A Peer Mentor Senior Leader and Student Ambassador, she has played a vital role in supporting new students and promoting UCD. 

Hannah’s work in student media has amplified student voices, holding institutions accountable while fostering a vibrant student-led discourse on campus.

Jake has led the UCD Student Legal Service as Chairperson, expanding its reach and impact. 

Under his leadership, the society raised significant funds for charity and provided free legal information clinics. 

A dedicated peer mentor and event organiser, Jake embodies leadership and service. His
commitment to student legal support has ensured access to vital information for students in need.

Jan has had a huge impact on society life and the community in the School of Chemistry. 

As Auditor of the German Society, he elevated and guided the Society as it emerged from Covid. He won Small Society of the Year, and Social Media Presence. 

Jan was also an undergrad rep on the School of Chemistry EDI Committee. He has immersed himself in the UCD community enhancing the student experience.

Katelyn has been a key figure in UCD Musical Society, progressing from Freshers’ Rep to Secretary. 

She has directed, produced, and managed multiple productions, ensuring the society’s success while also volunteering with UCD SVP and other student organisations. 

Katelyn’s unwavering passion for the arts has elevated the standard of student productions at UCD.

Katie has driven major initiatives in UCD Politics Society, securing sponsorships and launching annual career events. 

She co-founded the UCD Student Voter Empowerment Project and has been instrumental in student advocacy at national and international levels. 

Katie’s ability to influence policy discussions has made a tangible impact on student political engagement.

Mindaugas has revitalised the UCD Karate Club, leading them to competitive success while also representing martial arts clubs in the AUC. 

His leadership extends to university committees, where he advocates for student engagement and equality. 

Mindaugas’ meticulous approach to governance has strengthened the presence of martial arts in UCD’s sporting community.

Richard has been a dedicated volunteer and leader, serving as Treasurer of UCD SVP and President of UCD Olympic Handball.

He has expanded student involvement in both organisations while championing outreach initiatives and student support services. 

Richard’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community has positively shaped UCD’s student experience.

Robin has been a driving force in the Law Society, expanding membership and launching new initiatives. 

As a College Officer and Editor-in-Chief of the UCD Law Review, he has been a
passionate advocate for student representation and academic excellence. 

Robin’s influence in student governance has empowered his peers to take an active role in shaping campus policies.

Marco has made significant contributions to multiple societies, managing finances, organising events, and fostering engagement. 

As Treasurer of the Politics Society and Vice-Auditor of the Musical Society, he has ensured their financial sustainability and success. 

Marco’s ability to balance strategic leadership with creativity has helped societies flourish.

Sarah has led student welfare initiatives as an elected SU officer, including the widely successful TACO Tuesday campaign. 

She has shown dedication to student support and advocacy through her extensive involvement in student governance. 

Sarah’s ability to bring student concerns to the forefront has resulted in impactful and meaningful changes at UCD.

Shane’s leadership as MedSoc Auditor saw record-breaking fundraising and increased student engagement. 

He has pioneered successful sports and social events, fostering a strong sense of community among medical students.

Shane’s dedication to student life has strengthened the MedSoc network, creating a more supportive and dynamic experience for all members.

Siobhán has been a leader in sports and debating, balancing her passion for sailing with her engagement in UCD’s debating and law communities.

Her ability to lead both in competitive and organisational settings has made her a standout figure in multiple student groups.

Stéphane has overseen the growth of the L&H in members, events, and engagement. He has engaged students in topical discourse and welcomed guests such as Stephen Fry and Sally Hayden. 

He has represented the Society competitively with huge success, recently finishing as runner-up of the Irish Times Debate. 

Stéphane has also contributed to student publishing through work on the Board of the Law Review.

Wedge has played a crucial role in student politics, society events, and debating, managing successful initiatives across multiple student organisations. 

His expertise in event planning and leadership has contributed significantly to the growth and success of student-led activities at UCD.

The Awards aim to recognise the efforts of students in extra-curricular areas of university life, celebrating the leadership, commitment and energy which help to turn UCD into a lively, engaged community.