The Maeve McLoughlin Award

24 Oct 2020

We were delighted to present the inaugural Maeve McLoughlin Award to Sam Marin Lee during the week. The Award is in memory of Maeve McLoughlin who is the daughter of Liam Mcloughlin, a former Teacher and Guidance Counsellor at St Benildus College. Maeve passed away suddenly on March 9th 2020. Mrs. Brohan opened proceedings welcoming Liam, his wife Liz, and daughter Sharon, Sam Marin Lee and his mum Sharon. She spoke about the award before handing over to Mr. Kelly who spoke movingly about both Maeve and Sam outlining how both in their own ways showed tremendous courage and resilience. He said that Maeve always strived to be the best that she could be in spite of being born with a serious heart condition and Down Syndrome. She never allowed this to get in her way, always positive, she viewed every challenge as an opportunity. She completed her secondary education locally and did Certificate Programmes at Dun Laoghaire College of Further Education, Trinity College and UCD. She was involved in the Special Olympics for more than 25 years, winning multiple Provincial and National Titles in Rhythmic Gymnastics and representing Ireland in Swimming in 2003. She completed her Gold Award in the Athlete Leadership Programme and was an active Committee Member of the Dundrum Arch Club and Special Olympics, Eastern Region. She worked as a Teacher’s Assistant with the Down Syndrome Centre in Cabinteely and volunteered at the Balally Parish Resource Centre. When not working, she attended the Dalkey Education Centre run by John of God Carmona Services, something she enjoyed very much and where she was treated with the utmost respect. She loved films, music and dancing and was an avid concert goer. Maeve’s was a warm and generous nature; she had a fine intuitive intelligence and the marvellous gift of friendship. She loved St Benildus College and made many friends here over the years. She never missed the School Musical, took part in our inclusion event United Through Sport and was always around for the Run for Life Charity He then spoke about Sam and the great courage, determination and resilience that he has shown throughout his time in the College tirelessly fundraising for Mental Health Charities as well as immersing himself in every aspect of school life. He remembered Sam’s great efforts during last years Run for Life and the leadership qualities he displayed in organizing a group of 6th years to carry out the evening time roadside collection. Mr. Kelly spoke about Sam’s excellent work ethic and determination in his Accounting class. He did an excellent Leaving Certificate and has just commenced his studies in UCD. He was delighted to achieve his first choice CAO course of International Commerce. Following the speeches Ms. Mulligan who was a great friend of Maeves presented the plaque to Sam. Ms. Fahey presented a piece of Genesis to Maeve’s Dad Liam as a memento of the inaugural award and Rian Moore, who was a friend of Maeve’s through his work with the Arch Club presented Sam with a piece of Genesis. Rian was representing the student body. Sam is a very worthy recipient of the award and we look forward to may more recipients in the years ahead. Sam is gentleman in every way and the entire school community wishes him the very best going forward. Through this Award, Maeve’s memory will live on, her bravery and optimistic spirit can inspire others and she will always be part of the fabric of St Benildus College.