UCD President’s Awards Celebrate Leadership and Impact

The UCD President’s Awards recognise students who have made outstanding contributions across clubs, societies, governance, and broader university life. This year, President Orla Feely presented the honours at O’Reilly Hall on Friday, March 7th, celebrating individuals whose efforts have enriched the campus community.

Among them, Abigail Sykes revitalised DanceSoc, expanding membership, fostering inclusivity, and driving successful fundraising. Andrea Viani-Duggan played a key role in veterinary student mentorship, balancing leadership across multiple societies. Aoife McEvoy strengthened engagement in the Nursing and Midwifery Society, enhancing peer support.

Aoife O’Sullivan transformed Orienteering and Mountaineering, promoting accessibility and guiding both to national success. Ciara Donohue’s mental health advocacy and LGBTQ+ support have fostered a more inclusive environment. Cillian Murphy reinvigorated the Mechanical Engineering Society while improving governance. Conni Dawson championed Landscape Architecture students, ensuring their concerns reached institutional levels.

Daire Cregg, a leader in UCD GAA and a graduate sports scholar, excelled academically and athletically. Ellen Curran advanced Sustainability Society initiatives, pioneering impactful environmental projects. Erin Hoare bridged policy and activism, amplifying climate action. Hannah Kate Costello shaped student journalism as Co-Editor of the College Tribune.

Jake McEntee expanded UCD Student Legal Service, broadening free legal support. Jan Hrebík revitalised the German Society, earning university-wide acclaim. Katelyn Gaughan played a vital role in Musical Society, ensuring numerous productions thrived. Katie O’Sullivan led major Politics Society initiatives and co-founded the Student Voter Empowerment Project. Mindaugas Dzenkaitis bolstered martial arts on campus through leadership in the Karate Club.

Richard Otroshchenko expanded UCD SVP and Olympic Handball, driving student engagement. Robin Jowett increased Law Society membership while contributing to governance. Rodger Clery (Marco) balanced financial strategy with event planning across multiple societies. Sarah McGrath’s leadership in student welfare, including the impactful TACO Tuesday campaign, improved support services.

Shane Neville enhanced MedSoc’s engagement and fundraising, fostering a stronger medical student community. Siobhán McGuinness made significant contributions across sports and debating. Stéphane De Baireid drove L&H’s expansion, attracting high-profile speakers and securing debating success. Wedge Egan played a critical role in student politics, ensuring major initiatives thrived.

The President’s Awards celebrate the extraordinary achievements of these students, whose dedication and leadership continue shaping UCD’s dynamic campus life.