The Crescent College Comprehensive Past Pupils’ Union annual dinner was held at the Strand Hotel on Saturday 16th November 2024. It was hosted by Union President, Dermot Maher. There was an attendance of just over one hundred and thirty, which was a healthy turn out.
The Presidents’ guests were Helen O’Donnell, Chair of the CCC Board of Management, Diarmuid Mullins, School Principal, Shane Leahy, recipient of the roll of honour award, James Rael, President of Old Crescent RFC, Shane Dowling, President of Clongowes Past Pupils’ Union, Cian O’Carroll, representing Belvedere Past Pupils’ Union, John Daly, President of Mungret College Past Pupils’ Union, Mark Rogan, Vice President, Blackrock Union, John Treacy, President Jesuit Alumni/ae Ireland and Justice Kevin O’Higgins.
Diarmuid Mullins, Principal of CCC, welcomed the close relationship which continues to develop between the school and the Union. He acknowledged the contribution from past pupils to the successful development of the new strength and conditioning facility in the school. Diarmuid spoke about the recent refurbishment and specifically mentioned how the Central Area remains such an integral element of the school. He specifically complimented the foresight of Fr. Todd Morrissey insisting on the inclusion of this design feature and the many benefits it brings.
The President, Dermot Maher, welcomed the guests and outlined the events organised by the Union during the year. He highlighted the launch of CUSP (Crescent Union Solidarity Programme) which will offer advice and support to past pupils experiencing difficulties in their careers or personal lives. He indicated that the Union now has a panel of past pupils with legal, financial, employment, redundancy, counselling and other expertise to assist in providing such support. Dermot presented an award to recently retired teacher Sean O’Callaghan for his unique contribution to extracurricular activities in the school. Shane Leahy was presented with the 2024 Roll of Honour award for his achievements in sport, business but most importantly his humanitarian work.
The guest speaker, Shane Leahy of the Class of 1990, is currently CEO of Oxgygen8 Group and the driving force behind One4Humanity which has delivered over $80 million in medical supplies to multiple conflict zones including Ukraine and Gaza. Shane was a member of the Senior Rugby Cup winning teams in 89 and 90. He went on to play AIL rugby with Garryowen and Landsdowne while also representing Connacht, Munster and the Ireland A team. Shane spoke of how his time in Crescent and the Jesuit value of “Being One for Others” has influenced his humanitarian efforts. Working hard and teamwork were other values that he gained from his time in Crescent.
Peter Doyle acted as Master of Ceremonies for the evening. Chris MacNamara compiled the slide show for the dinner. Arriving guests were serenaded by Seamus Purcell on the Uilleann Pipes, Sam Hughes on Bass guitar and Shane Byrne on keyboard and guitar. These school students gave up their Saturday evening to provide this wonderful music and enforcing the connection between the school and Union. The overall success of the evening was primarily due to the organising committee of Keely Cantrell, Eva Clarke, Rachel Harnett, Jeannie O’Malley and especially Aedín Prendergast
Thanks to everyone who attended and supported the event and hoping to see many of you again and some old friends and new faces in 2025.
