Colin Maguire '91: How are all you doing? What a time we had. Hey time goes by so quickly. 34 now, oh my god. Anyway i'm still in touch with a lot of old school friends, but still haven't seen a lot of you since those days. Anyway when i left school, i went to live in Holland for a short while (9 months or so). Lived in Dublin for a few years and worked in numerous jobs, until breaking my neck off a motorbike in September 2004, which i survived with no paralysis . . . very, very lucky. Studying computers now and living in Dublin . . . love to see a reunion soon. i'm going to tell everyone i know from then to start writing in and hopefully it will help the cause .... bye for now. [April '06] |
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Anne-Marie Mahon ‘79: After Laurences I worked for a couple of years for Bayer Ireland as a Laboratory Assistant (never did science at school but I never let things like that stop me!!!) Then I went to DCU, got an Honours business degree specialising in HR and Industrial Relations....worked for AIB in various locations around Dublin for a year and a bit then took the boat to London where I worked for AIB initially, and then for Benchmark Bank, Dao Heng Bank and Development Bank of Singapore as a Personnel Assistant, Personnel Officer and then HR Manager for 19 years in the City Financial Centre. Along the way I became a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, became a competent Toastmaster (public speaking), Vice-Chair of the City Personnel Group (a networking forum for HR managers in The City of London)....and got a bronze medal for Adult Tap-Dancing and trained as a Reiki Healer! People from Laurences have been a constant in my life: Claire Brennan ('81), Ruth Brennan and Niamh Billings ('82) and Gill McConnell '(81)...all connections in London at sometime and now back in Ireland again except Ruth who is currently living in Hong Kong working at HSBC - she's due back to London next year and Niamh who is married in London and has one son Oisin! I returned to live in Dublin this March and am beginning to find my feet again after living away for so long. I took a 3 month contract when I returned as an Outplacement Consultant helping people who were being made redundant to put together CVs, helping with job search and interview techniques. I decided to take the summer off as I felt I needed some time to get reacquainted with friends and family (the curse of having 5 brothers to keep track of) and get back into the swing of things Irish style. Somehow it seems to be a very long summer but the job search will start again soon!!! I have great memories of Laurences:
Regretfully, I've not yet met Mr Right although I've kissed a few toads on the way. No kids of my own but love my 4 nephews courtesy of younger brothers Stephen (who didn't go to Laurences) and Alan (who did but not til 1983ish!). Warmest regards. [Sept. ‘06] |
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David Mahon '82: Still living in Dublin. I'm self-employed working as a control systems engineer in the pharmaceutical industry. [Nov. '05] |
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Ciara Mangan '89: I’m doing fine, living in sunny Kent and working in London for a software vendor. I moved to the UK about 2 years ago and am really happy here. I come back to Ireland on a very regular basis, so I don’t miss out on my two nieces or any of my friends’ children growing up. My family also spends a lot of time with me in Kent, which means I don’t have a chance to get homesick. I have a partner called Simon and he has three children from a previous marriage. I’m not sure that anyone would remember me, as I was only there for a year, but I did love my year and I have some fantastic memories. The website looks great, you’ve done a great job. Best wishes. [June ‘06] |
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Susan (Mason) Buckley '81 : I Live in Ballybrack with my husband Joe (a Tipperary man) and our son Neil. I worked in the cash office in Tesco for 20 years -- the store was owned by Tesco when I started in 1983 and was again own by Tesco when I went on maternity leave in 2003. Joe and I bought our house in Ballybrack 10 years ago -- I didn't move too far from my parents or the school. We were married 6 years ago. I am at home full-time since Neil was born in April 2003. At this stage he is 2 years and 7 months old. He is the apple of our eye. I never ended my connections with the Marianist community and the greater Marianist world. Over the years I have been involved in various lay groups. |
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Darren Matthews '88: I just discovered the site today. Since leaving school I have worked as a baker, a motorcycle courier, for Microsoft and for ten years as a taxi-driver -- and for the last three-and-a-half years, I have been working for Dublin Bus. I’m married to Edel and we have 3 beautiful girls: Megan , Georgia and Sophie. We still live in Ballybrack. As you can sense, I’m not the best on the computer. It’s after taken me half-an-hour just to do this. As Jason Thomas said, “If I only knew then what I know now? I wouldn’t go as far as saying my schooldays were the best days of my life but they certainly were good and I met some good people there. I would love to be kept up to date if there was a reunion for the class of ‘88 or anything else that's going on. I would also like to get in contact with past pupils. [Feb '07] |
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Stuart.McAnaspie ‘88: I found the website some time back but other commitments did not allow me to write. It is a wonderful idea and looking at the names brought back a flood of memories. I was back in Ireland in 2005 and I must say things have definitely changed. I miss the old days. Well a little more about me. I am currently living in Georgia in the US , wife Cheryl and 4 kids, Joseph, Kirsten, Emily, and Yukali. I was in the US Marines for 13 years, lived in Japan for 3 years, did one tour in Iraq. I am currently in the Georgia National Guard and am getting ready to go back overseas. It is funny I remember now I ran into Peter Moore one day on the train going into New York City on St. Patricks Day, small world. Please include me on the directory. I would love hear from everybody. [Apr. 08] |
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Carolanne (McAuley) Tighe '87: I'm still heavily involved with gymnastics. I run my own classes etc. and I'm seriously involved with Irish Gymnastics Ltd. I'm President General (Gymnastics) of Irish Gymnastics Ltd., and I'm also National Coach and Tutor for Recreational Gymnastics in Ireland . I'm currently overseeing the Irish Team working towards representing Ireland at World Gymnastrada in Austria 2007 -- this is an event were over 30k gymnasts from over 50 countries worldwide come together to perform Display Gymnastics. -It is just incredible!!!! I also work locally in a half dozen schools -- St Anne’s, Shankill being one of them, so I probably teach loads of our past-pupils’ kids. Yes, I'm 37 this Christmas and I can still do splits and turn somersaults!!!! I have two children, Christopher 14yrs. and Corinne 16yrs. old. I hope all is well with you and no doubt our paths will cross again. Slainte [Aug ‘06] |
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Brendan "Macker" McDonald '77: It was a great surprise that i got a call from Lonan Boylan about the planned reunion of the class 1972-1977. I always said it was a small world we live in today and i was only thinking the other day, will the college ever get everyone together to bring the old and fond memories back of our days in SCHOOL. No doubt after 30 yrs. all the faces will have slightly changed with age and there will be a lot of stories to be told. I do remember some of the guys and i will never forget my old teacher Madeleine O Shea who i believe was one of the best ever and who had passion for teaching. She never had much faith in me but what a teacher (Madeleine, if you are still around i didn't become an accountant but i do have to work closely with them now, so it does help being taught by you.) Well guys thanks for making contact and i will be there on the night and no doubt it will be a BOM. By the way, hello to my old mates George O Brien, Lonan Boylan, Colm Dooley, Paul (George) Reynolds and to Paul Byrne who I bump into now again at Dublin Airport. Regards and the best of health to everyone. [April '06] |
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Karen McGovern '90 & '91: Hiya, just saying hello after seeing the website. I left St Laurence College and went to DCU (Business and Finance) for 4 years -- then took a few evening classes in Information Systems at various colleges. I have to smile when I remember back to our computer classes, when we used to leave the library and it would take a whole 45 minutes for the discs to load up...... the computer in the middle of the network never worked and then the computer class would be nearly over ...I still have nightmares about that dreadful typing program uggggggh! I have still never learned how to type.....was afraid I would be career-steered towards secretarial work :) After DCU, I worked for various insurance companies in their IT departments before doing some travel around Thailand, Singapore, Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand (the obligatory year way before your 30's loom, eh?) Would recommend it to anyone! I have now returned to take a "proper" job to pay off my Visa which crept up after my travels:) Having spent the last year in Waterford , I am now coming back up to the "big smoke" to work for another Insurance company as a Senior Software Engineer (God help me). I haven’t been in touch with anybody since I left and was saddened to see Karl's name on the RIP list. I seem to remember with a smile the band that he played in at our rag day in the room beside the dreaded home economics room ......they seemed more talented than U2 at the time! A sad loss. On a lighter note, if there’s anything I can do to help to steer any future pupils away from I.T., please let me know:) All the best! [June ‘06] |
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Owen McGovern '89: After Laurences, I studyied in Kevin St. College of Technology. With a degree in computer programming, I have been working in I.T. ever since. Currently am a senior software engineer, working in the city centre and living in Lucan. Can be contacted via www.classmates.ie [Nov. '05] |
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Sandra McGovern '98: After doing the Leaving, I was accepted into a PLC Leisure Management course in Sallynoggin. I went on to do Sports Therapy and Personal Training and then got a degree in Rehabilitation from Wolverhampton University. I have now been accepted to study Physiotherapy in England and am going to do the 3 year degree course there. I want to thank you for all your help over the years and am glad I went to St Laurence College. Thank you sincerely. [Nov. '05] |
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Nicholas McGrath '72: I was in the college from the start in 1967. When i see all the names here it brings back a lot of memories of people i had forgotten. I often think i would like a walk around the school to see what it’s like now. Since leaving the college, over 30 years ago, I’ve married, have 4 children, living in Delgany and working as a building services engineer. Any chance of a diamond jubilee this year as its 40 years since it all began? [Feb. '07] |
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Alan McGregor '81: I remember Bro. Jim (and Fred, and Joe) and The Group well, and I have many, many fond memories during my one-and-a-half years at St. Laurence. I remember the trip to Donegal in 1980. Didn’t get much sleep but we sure had a riot!! We were playing Risk or Monopoly (or something) until about 2 in the morning. I also recall an endearing term used to refer to a group of students who had a strong bond of friendship … weren’t they called The Group? After finishing school & college I figured that there were more engineering jobs in Scotland than in Ireland , so I moved. I loved Ireland and presumably if I had waited a little longer for a job I’d probably still be there and probably would have been at the reunion in May. I arrived in Boston from Scotland in 2000 and immediately tracked down Alex Nicassio who was in Baton Rouge . I contacted him one week before his home telephone was due to be disconnected following his relocation to Atlanta . When he and his fiancé came to visit me in Boston I barely recognized him … shorts and a tee shirt, and of course a few extra pounds. I was looking for someone in a brown three piece suite with a gold watch and chain. How’s the weather in Dublin? Here in New England, we have just had the heaviest rain in 70 years. We even got a knock on our front door telling us that we might want to get ready to evacuate if the river bursts its banks. It didn’t. I have attended schools near Detroit , Edinburgh and St. Laurence, Dublin and never have I felt as welcome as I did at your school. I was a little rough around the edges and I constantly robbed the candy machine and I apologize profusely. But none-the-less people were incredibly tolerant and forgiving. Wonderful friends and wonderful Brothers!! I can honestly say that I am a changed individual and have never robbed any more candies machines since then. I am sorry to hear about some of our friends who have passed away, especially Dara. She was the first student to welcome me to the school. She was a blessing and I’ll never forget her. [June ‘06] |
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Bernard McGuinness '85: While working and being bored at the time, I put my name into Google and there it was and here we are. I think it`s a great idea. It brought back a lot of memories for me, good and bad. It`s true, when you get older you get wiser. I am married and living for the past 17 years in Basel, Switzerland. My wife, Astrid, is Swiss and I have three sons: Benjamin is 16 years old, Julien is 13 years old and the smallest , Luke is 6 years old. I work for a Swiss facade building company. I sit 8 hours each day behind my computer, programming machines. My most notable piece of work to date, is the Swiss re tower (gerkhin) in London. The saddest part is, that Gary Madden and Bernard Masterson are no longer with us. I never saw them again since the schooldays. I will keep in touch with the board and hope others will get in contact. P.S. It`s not often that I get the chance to speak in English and I have lost a lot of spellings. So if you see a false spelling , sorry. I speak here only German. [Jan '06] |
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Graham McKeown '89: What a fantastic site… Can’t believe that it’s been 16 years. Can’t believe we wore those clothes…. Can’t believe that there were that many in the class as well!! A reunion is a fantastic idea. For me, when I left, I went to college in Dundalk for a couple of years and then completed a degree in National College of Ireland. Went off and lived in the States for a couple of years (South Carolina) came back and have been working in IT for the last 10 years. I’m living in Stepaside and working in Dun Laoghaire so never too far from “home.” I have been blessed with a young son (Dillon). He’s 7 months old….. I still hang around with Alan Mahon and am in contact with Gavin Wildes (who looks the exact same as in the photos, maybe a bit taller) and am always bumping into people (never remembering their names!!!). If you need a hand organising a reunion, please let me know…. Looking forward to the reunion already!!! All the best. [May '06] |
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Roy McLoughlin '76: Having made vows as a Marianist Brother, I am very much loving teaching History at Moeller High School and living in Cincinnati, Ohio. I have fond memories of St. Laurence College. [June '06] |
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Eoin Mac Mahon '77: Greetings to all from the Canaries. Out of the blue I received a message from Mary Domoney, who through a bit of detective work had managed to contact my mother. Shortly afterwards Lonan was in contact and through him I found out about the reunion and the website. Good on ya Lonan!! I have just been looking at some of the photos on the website. I am the one with the unruly hair on the far left. The hair is going rapidly and if you add in a beard, that’s me!! Fuerteventura has been my home now for the last 22 years. After leaving school I headed off to the "continent" and spent a very enjoyable couple of years travelling and working in different countries. At some stage I decided I should grow up and get a proper job and so returned to Dublin . I was working for a time with Eamonn Redmond in a Bio-Tech Company in Sandyford and I managed to crash a bike with John Brennan (sorry Johnny) but other than that lost contact with all my other classmates. Just reading the names brings back the memories I arrived here on the Canaries in 1984 with a rucksack on my back and a set of custom-made sails for windsurfing and never left. Windsurfing was my reason for being here and within a short time I was over on Fuerteventura which was and is one of the best places in the world for Windsurfing. In 1984 I started as manager of a small school here and over the next 8 years we built it into THE top school in the world. In 1992 I left to go sailing and spent 6 months sailing around the Canaries and doing S.F.A. Working again became an issue and on returning to Fuerteventura I started work with a day charter boat (28M Gaff rigged Schooner) as a way to earn a crust. During this time I took my Engineers exams for the Spanish merchant navy and became a card carrying seaman. In 1997 I decided that a change would be as good as a rest and bought a pub. I am now 10 years a publican and using the vast amount of knowledge one gets sitting at the bar for years. I am now on the other side and doing the pouring. I have put together a website www.barsafari.com which also has a photo of me. I certainly hope that after the reunion I will be able to welcome one or the other old school friend to a beer. The Irish are not that well represented down here in the south of Fuerteventura and I would love to change that if possible. I am really looking forward to the reunion and will be travelling up to Dublin on the previous Thursday with good old Ryanair from Fuerteventura . Ok, that’s it for the moment. Closed up tonite at two and its now 4am . Best regards to everybody. [Feb. ‘07] |
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Stephen McNally ’79: I have very few memories of St. Laurence’s but only because Mark and I didn’t join until 1977 when we moved up from Cork -- but we were made so welcome it was definitely the best 2 years of my school life. I particularly remember my Irish teacher. Not his name but I learnt more Irish from him during those 2 years than all of the other 9+ years. My best memory of St. Laurence’s is of my peers. In particular: Jon, Niall, Peter, John, Shane, Peter, Pat, to name but a few. I always remember the day we all bunked of school just to say that we did it once. We all cycled down to Killiney beach and spent the day there. Another fond memory is having to clean up rubbish from the school ground as part of a punishment. I always had fun because it meant we could spend more time with our friends after school. My worst memory was losing a very close friend. To this day I never knew and still can’t understand why. Regards [Oct 07] |
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Sharon Messitt '92: Just came across the website there, as my little brother is starting in St.Laurence's this September! The website is a great idea and as Glenn said, brings back a lot of memories. I am currently living in Wexford town, living with my partner Fran (we've been together for 11 years now, and have no plans to marry, and we are both happy that way!) and we have an 8 year old little boy called Tiernan. Life is treating me well. I am working as a Data Entry Clerk for a credit reference agency and am currently looking for a change of job. I did several secretarial courses when I left school and worked in a newsagents for several years (don't ask how I ended up there!) in Shankill, then re-located to Wexford when we had Tiernan. Noelle Cronin is my best mate in the world, so am still in touch with her all the time. Still in touch with Siobhan O'Brien and met up with Denise Creamer last year for a hen night.... they are all doing really, really well, but I shall let them post their own stories to the site. I won't go into what they are up to! Funnily enough, I was looking back over the pictures of Russia (remember that trip, Glenn??) the other day, oh the memories!!! I still have a chipped front tooth thanks to Michael Mooney swinging his legs back and forth while sitting on the bunk above me, and getting me in the face!!! Anyway, hope everyone is doing well. I was so sorry to hear about Paul Barnes. Rest In Peace, Paul. If Eithne Healey is reading this, please get in touch and let us know what you are up to these days... All the best. [June ‘06] |
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Jennifer Mohan '85: I left St Laurence's in '85 and am still in touch with many of my classmates...most of them still recognisable! I still live in Bray. I have had some different jobs. I did a secreterial course when I finished my Leaving Cert. After that I worked for Nixdorf Computers and then I managed a few Four Star Pizza outlets. I am now working in the greeting card and gift industry, selling direct to retail. I am the purchasing and warehouse manager for IEL and more recently I am working as sales rep. As I said before, I bump into many school friends and the question everyone asks is "When are we going to have a class reunion?" So, who is going to take the bull by the horns and orgainise it?? A challenge I give to you all!!! [Dec. '05] |
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Kevin Mooney ’72: I came across your site rather indirectly – out of the blue Kieron Delahunt contacted me and, having established that he had the right Kevin Mooney, we wondered about others who would have come to Laurences for the first intermediate cert class from CBC Monkstown. Justin and Matthew Tuite were two and I think James O’Keeffe another. So I said I’d ‘Google’ the names and lo and behold I came to the past pupils site. The names on the list are great to see because I have lost complete touch with all the guys. I am very sorry to note that Alan Connaughton has died – I remember the rock-band practices after school where he did his best to teach us some basic chords – we practised a lot but never actually played anywhere but it was great fun. I laughed when I read Ken Rush’s contribution because my hair was waist length by the time I left – I had to get an estimate before I had it cut. I remember Ken as one of the ‘125’ motorbikers. I have fond memories of Nick Walsh our geography teacher and Brother Widmer who was brilliant both as a maths teacher and a piano player, which confused the hell out of me. Also, Mr. Kavanagh the science teacher who we gave such a hard time to but who was (and hopefully still is) one of life’s genuine nice guys. I’m afraid I cannot remember more names of teachers. I am lecturing in the Dublin Institute of Technology, married to Fionnuala and have three grown-up ‘kids’ aged 28, 26 and 22. I’d love to hear from others in the class – I remember Ben Finley, Christy O’Sullivan, Gerrard Owens and more Best regards and congrats on the website. [May ‘07] |
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Deirdre Moore ’83: Following 5 very happy years in St. Laurence College, I left at the ripe old age of 17 and headed to UCD to study Social Science thinking. I wanted to be a Social Worker, but found that wasn't for me. So I ended up going from UCD down the road to work in Corporate Banking at AIB's head office in Ballsbridge – where I still am 20 years later!!!....(Sometimes I wonder if I have become somewhat institutionalised, but I really love it and have done well working my way up in Corporate Banking to a Senior Management position....sure why would I leave when they look after me so well!!) I am currently on 6 months Maternity Leave enjoying life, playing at being housewife for awhile and looking after my two children: Nicole 4 and Gabrielle (5 months) and my hubby Derrick – who I married in 1992 after many, many years of dating...(I brought him to my Debs and that’s not today or yesterday!!) When I read some of what the people wrote on the website, I couldn't believe what good memories people have. It certainly jogged a few for me. Thanks Colin for reminding me of being your twin. I could hardly quote a line from that play now (sorry Mr. Murtagh, but the memory is not like it used to be). But I do remember all the house parties in 3rd and 5th year and those innocent games of Spin the Bottle. (Our parents were so good leaving us to our own devices.) Names that spring to mind are Liam, Sean, Jerry, Eamonn, Bridget, Tina, and Maria – to name just a few of the motley crew from the old days. Also science classes with Mr O'Hanlon (fondly known as Barney before the big purple dinosaur was ever invented)...not sure how I did so well in Physics and Chemistry in the Leaving as I genuinely didn't have a clue what he was talking about, thanks to Brian who sat behind me and played with my hair and tickled my back for most of the class!! I still see Bridget Whelan a lot. She followed me into AIB a year later. She is great for arranging girls’ nights out. We recently met up for dinner with Janet Kelly (who still looks as gorgeous as ever), Derval and Tina. Janet's twin, Bernard and now known as Ben also works in AIB, as one of the brilliant chefs. So I see him every day. Thanks again to all the wonderful teachers in the school, especially Madeleine who had a profound effect on a lot of the girls who went through St. Laurence under her stewardship as Dean of Girls. Also to Brothers Jim, Fred, Fr Mike and the many other Brothers who came and went during my 5 years and the many years after – when I was still very much involved with the PP Association and the dances and Christmas Bazaar etc. Madeleine, you certainly taught me a thing or two about setting tables and serving. I loved working on the PP Dance projects when I was in school and would love to see a big PP Dance happening again. It looks like a lot of past pupils would love to come back to Laurences to relive a few memories – even if its just to dance the night away in the gym-cum-'ball room of romance’ where many a good snog took place in the past!! For the class of '83, let’s make sure we have a reunion in 2008 for our 25 th as we missed out on our 20 th. I would love to see all the 'young' faces again after all these years. [Dec. '06] |
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Peter Moore '88: After leaving Laurence's I moved to the US on a soccer scholarship. I have lived here now 17 years and am happily married 10 years to Kathy with two great kids, Kayla 9 and Ryan 6. I work in NY city in the garment industry as the VP,CFO for an intimate apparel company. I still stay in contact with a few of my fellow PP's: Greg Murphy, Andrew Brennan and Jason Thomas.It's always nice to hear what's going on in their world. In reading the notes it's great to hear about a few of my past classmates - Sean F sounds like you doing well how's Niall and Rebecca doing? Allen Kelly nice to hear you finally tied the knot, hope all is going well. I always look forward to my visit's home and try to stop by the school to say hi to the Brothers, hope to be home this coming July and would love to hear from any other PP's and grab a pint or two! |
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Suzanne Moore '81: Wow, it was so nice reading what others had to say on the web-site. It seems like eons ago, that we were all so young, but some of my memories also feel like they were just yesterday!
Unlike all of you, I am still single with no kids. I have however, informed my niece Kayla (my brother Peters daughter) that she will have to take care of her old spinster aunt when she gets older!! She's only nine now and assures me that she will - wonder how long it will take her to change her mind!! After leaving St. Laurence I was forced by my loving parents to go to Ballsbridge College of Business Studies, where I graduated with first class honors for the accelerated Secretarial/Accounting Program (aren't y'all impressed!!!) I say I was forced, because I sooooo wanted to become a Ban Garda, but they weren't recruiting that year and my Mom in her wisdom felt that a secretarial course would always be useful for a girl! After that I went to work as an Accounts Assistant for an engineering firm, which bored me to tears. so I decided to take off for Spain where I had (looking back now) a three year vacation. I was working, but living in Marbella was a vacation - Susan (Mason) Buckley came to stay for a couple of weeks too! After three years, I decided to come back to reality and returned to Ireland . I worked for Holfeld Plastics, who tripled in size between the day I started and the day I left. Again, getting bored, I decided to apply for the Morrison Visa - and lo and behold I was lucky enough to get one. Without so much as a second thought I packed my things and flew to New York . It was an easy move as my brothers Arthur & Peter were here already. I took the first job I could get over here and it happened to be in real estate. I have since changed companies and moved from New York to Connecticut , but 12 years later I still work in real estate and now consider myself a bit of an expert in commercial real estate. Other than vacations (when I always see Susan Buckley - still a great friend), I don't think I'll ever return to Ireland full time, although I am still extremely proud to be Irish. I'm also lucky enough to have my brother Peter (also a St. Laurence PP), his wife Kathy and kids Kayla (9) and Ryan (6), live about an hour away from me. Arthur moved to Naples Florida , which is great too - good for a cheap vacation - Naples is not cheap, but not having to pay for a hotel is. I will actually be in Ireland for two days the last weekend in August 2006 as my youngest brother Chris is getting married in Italy . So if anyone is around - maybe we can meet up for lunch! Hope I haven't bored you all to tears - I remember you all fondly - we really were blessed to go to such a great school and have such a good time together! Things I remember about St. Laurence: *Two of the boys trying to look at my underwear in first year! *Having to start school half an hour earlier than everyone else for Ms. O'Shea's Accounting class and Bro. Jim's honors math class! *Being Cecily in Paddy Pender’s production of The Importance of Being Ernest - and having to run my fingers through Alex Nicassio's brylcreamed hair saying "O Ernest - what wonderfully curly hair you have" *Miss Sexton and the fact that every guy in the school had a crush on her! *The crazy weekend in Donegal, where we lied to the lady who operated the store and told her that Bro. Jim was single and available! *Ms. O'Shea taking us all over to sell tickets for the Christmas Raffles - remember the thermometers on the lobby wall! *Taking the Group Cert with my broken wrist in a cast! *Ms. Lucey, the music teacher and the hell we put that poor woman through! *Bro. Fred, who daubed me Suzy Q my first day of school! I could go on - anyhoo - love to hear from any and all of you. [June ‘06] |
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Liam Motherway ’84: I've just seen the past pupil's page on the school website and was delighted to see old friends. The contacts area is excellent and it's great to read what people are doing. Could you please add my e-mail address to your contacts? I am living in England but get back to Dublin a couple of times a year. If an event coincides with a visit I would love to catch up. [Oct 07] |
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Jennifer (Mullen) Kavanagh ’82: Just came across the web site by accident, nice to hear what everyone is doing. Sorry I missed the reunion, but it looks like it was fun and the picture of people as teenagers just look so odd. Just to fill in my news, married with 3 children: Caoimhe 19, Alexander 17 and Mia-Hollie 13 – all hail and hearty, thank God . After many years as a hairdresser, I went back to school to retrain and studied Food Science and Computers. I‘ve had various jobs over the years from, obviously hairdressing to General Manager of a food factory but now I work as a Sales Co-coordinator for Holfeld Plastics. I really am enjoying it. I am living in Gorey, Co Wexford. We moved here 8 years ago and have settled into the community quite well . I’d love to hear about more of you and if there is a Newsletter please sign me up Regards [Apr. 08] |
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| Alan Murphy '81: I am conducting some research on IT usage at a sector level in Ireland and have just stumbled across your wonderful website. Glad to see you are trying to maintain the links between past pupils and St Laurence's. It is interesting to read the posted messages from students I remember both in my and other years. This is the first time in many a year I have thought about the staff and students in our school, and that time in my life.
Well, here are the highlights of what happened to me after St Laurence's: Colette (Colette Maher: class of '81, too) and I were married in 1984; we have two girls Sarah (21) and Niamh (20). We live in Greystones and have just celebrated our 22nd wedding anniversary. Colette graduated from TCD in 2001 and works as finance manager. I worked in the film industry and then opened a Newsagent that did not go so well. In 1994 (at the age of 30) I did the repeat Leaving Cert in Dun Laoghaire VEC. The class consisted mostly of 18-year-old students trying to improve their grades and fortunately I got the points to take Economics in TCD. After completing my degree in Trinity in 1999, in 2000 I was awarded Marie Curie scholarship and studied for a Doctum Colloquium in K.U. Leuven in Belgium. In 2001 I returned to Ireland and was awarded a Government of Ireland scholarship to complete my Ph.D. in Economics at TCD. After a lot of hard work and large quantities of coffee, I graduated in 2005 and among other things currently work as an Economist for the Irish Central Bank. The things I remember most at St Laurence's: I am sorry to read the sad news about Derek Lewis and Dara Shakespeare. I remember sharing many a good time in art class with Derek and Declan Gaffney. Dara was an amazing young woman, giving 110% commitment to everything she was involved in. Dara was a very warm person and as I well remember always stood by her friends in school. Hope all is well with you and warmest wishes to all. [Feb '06] |
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Celine (Murphy) Blacow '84: Hi all – remember me? I was Celine Murphy but now it’s Celine Blacow . It’s really good to see the website up and running and very interesting to read everyone’s biog’s! Looking at the photos had me in stitches; did we really look that bad?! As for me, after leaving Laurence’s, I went to Cathal Brugha Street to study Food Science. I never did work in that area afterwards but it was a really good education in life (and in drinking too much but the less said about that, the better). I then went to work at Trinity College as a conservationist in the Long Room and in the Conservation Laboratory where I worked for approximately 5 years on 15 th and 16 th century books and maps. When I decided I had had enough of that (it’s a very small industry and you’re basically waiting for someone to drop dead before you can get a promotion), I worked in administration – in various small companies before moving to Dun Laoghaire VEC, working for several years and then being promoted to the Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology. During this time, I studied at night to gain my BA (Hons) in Business Studies. I am currently the School Administrator in the School of Creative Arts , looking after all the administration involved in the running of an art/design/film/media school with 700+ students and 150+ staff. I have been working here since 1997 and really enjoy it – for those in the know, Amanda Ralph (class of 84) is also working here (she told me about the website). In other news, I am extremely happily married to an English guy, Malcolm, who is in the process of writing a novel and we’re, at the moment, in the process of buying our house (nightmare!). It’s really nice to read about everyone and it’d be good to keep in touch. [Oct. ‘06] |
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Senan Murphy '77: Lonan Boylan has been in touch with me about a past pupils’ reunion planned for next year. I’ve read some of the other mini-biographies with interest so I thought that I would add my own, in the spirit of glasnost, so to speak. I’m still a keen amateur guitarist. I delivered several courses on guitar and computer programming to adult evening classes over a period of four years since I moved to England . Your exhortations to us to work with maths and computers were heeded by some of us, even though we did a good job of pretending not to care a jot for your opinions at the time. I must admit that the pupils who I really dreaded teaching in the evening were teenagers. I realise now what a good job you guys did to control your tempers with us at the time. You all made a difference with your enthusiasm. We were all lucky to be in the right place at the right time with the right people. I’ve fond memories of everybody who shared their time with me in that year. (I won’t name individuals as I would run the risk of offending somebody by omission.) I moved to London in 1985, after spending several years with an audio electronics manufacturer and then spending a year back at college to learn computer programming. In 1988 I moved to Portsmouth , England and got married and had two children in the years that followed. I worked for General Motors for ten years in Finance, Production Control and Stores Management. I’ve spent the last four years working in the Telecoms industry working in IT. I do miss being able to keep in touch with my old friends as I now live abroad, so, a past pupils re-union will be a great opportunity for me to meet some old friends again. What a teacher Gerry Murtagh was. He really encouraged us all to start thinking for ourselves. I still remember those charity walks which he led us on. His humour pervaded every moment and made us all realise that learning was fun. Thank you for taking the time to read my ramblings. [April ‘06] |
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Tracy Murphy-Dewar ‘87: I was delighted to receive the link to this site and read up on your lives and adventures. Being a student in St. Laurence College was terrific. I am thankful that I went to secondary school in the 80's. Since 1988 I have lived overseas between France , Belgium , Switzerland & USA . Last month we returned to France. I work for the International Labour Office of the United Nations based in Geneva . Our home is France where I live with my husband and daughter, Miss IslaLily (Aug '05). There are many good times to recollect: learning to type on those computers in A1, Mr. McGuinness!, chatting by the lockers, passing notes in the library, getting ready to go to Blinkers in Karen Scully's house, Rag Day. I have photos bearing witness to dodgy perms, pearly pink lipstick, and cure heads. "Repeat" year especially for the laughs & good times shared with Ian, Noel, Gavin, Gary, Rory and the girls. I remember it all with great affection. I am still in touch with Anne Williams, Hazel Collier, Maria Crinion, Ciara O'Connor, Pauline Cunningham and Kerry Ryder. I hope that each of you enjoys the best of health. [April ‘07] |
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| Noel Murray '77: I have very happy memories of my years in Laurences - I was one of a small group of boys from around Kilternan who attended the school in the seventies - generally known as the mountainy men (or words to that effect). The group included my brother Brian, Ronald and David Nicholson, Gerard and Declan Winstanley, Eugene Hilliard, Paul Kent and Ken Roe. We frequently thumbed lifts to and from school on the Ballycorus Road, if we missed our bus, or had sport after school - imagine our children suggesting it today!
On the sporting front, I recall playing Rugby, Soccer and, if memory serves me right, even Gaelic for the school - none particularly well, but the crack was good. We had a decent Soccer team, but the Rugby wasn't up to much - one especially bad drubbing in the Junior Cup (section A, round one) stands out - against Marion, I think. Like hundreds of others before and after me, Madeline O' Shea particularly stands out in my memory. She had extraordinary commitment to the school and its community, and had a very strong influence on me. Whether a result of that influence or not, I became an accountant. I spent a couple of years in Cincinnati in the eighties, and returned home to get married in 1987 - to Mary, a Kerrywoman. I am currently working with SR Technics, an aircraft maintenance company based at Dublin Airport. We live in Clonskeagh and have three children, Richie (16), Ciara (14) and Aoife (12). [Jan. '06] |
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Tina ( Murray ) Spivack '90 & 91R : Since leaving St. Laurence’s in 1991, I studied Business Management in Sports and Leisure and worked as a Health Club Manager for many years in the Isle of Man where, lo and behold, I bumped into 2 other past pupils: Kim Murphy and Lisa Barnes. From there I ended up coming back to Dublin and meeting my wonderful husband Gavin whom I married in December 2005 (late starter I know!). We traveled to Australia for a year before settling down and buying a house in Co. Kildare where we lived for 2 years before moving back to Bray this year. I have worked for the St. John of God Hospitaller Order for nearly 4 years now as Project Manager of their service based in Islandbridge. I keep in contact with Kim and Sarah Holmes, Graham O’Rourke! From the repeat year in 1990-1991 I am in contact with Sean Moran, Vinny Morris and Donal Cronin. In fact we were all at Sean’s wedding in Wexford earlier this year! I can’t quite believe it but my baby sister has just started in Laurence’s this year (the last of all the Murrays to attend there!) My other sister Paula left last year. I pass by the school every day on the way home from work and remember all the great days we all had there and sad times – losing Frank Blake so suddenly in 2 nd Year, for example. Can’t quite believe that Karl, Colin, Ciara and Frank are no longer with us . I remember the school band playing in the old gym on our Rag Day – Dotts, Corco, Vinny, Mo – what a year we were! So many good people to grow up with. Does anyone remember the Radiator Gang????? How about the retreat to Glendalough with Br. Dave where we had a petition to Free the Glendalough 6!!!! My fondest memory of those times is sitting around in a gang with a Corco, Mo, Dotts, Casso and all the girls singing Hotel California! I also remember when I was in 7 th Year when Tessie caught us in Kilbogget fields with our cans of bud and frog marched us all back to the school (Oh the shame!) Ahhh the memories……… I often wonder what everyone is up to. I missed the last reunion as I was in Oz at the time, but would really love to meet up with everyone again. I’m always finding old photos of our school days and would love to see photos that anyone else has!! All in all, I loved my time in Laurences and sometimes wish I was that age all over again, after all I made some friends for life there and if I was that age again I wouldn’t feel as knackered as I do now when I try to run on the basketball court!!!!! [Dec. 06] |
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Paul Nash (r.i.p.) '78: Aug. 17, 2006 (peacefully) after an illness bravely borne in the loving care of all the staff at St. Vincent's Private Hospital, Paul, dearly beloved brother of Olive, Veronica, Cecilia, Sylvia, Paddy and Barbara; sadly missed by his loving family, nieces, nephews and many friends. R.I.P. Removal tomorrow (Saturday) evening from the Hospital to the Church of S.S Alphonsus and Columba, Ballybrack Village arriving at 5 o'c. Funeral Monday morning after 10 o'c. Mass to Deans Grange Cemetery. |
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Celine Naughton '77: I have mixed memories of my two years as an interloper in St Laurence’s. So many boys, so little time… I was in awe of all the girls (well, all nine in our year) and a little bit in love with all the lads, including half the brothers. Anyway, I came away with my own Laurence’s boy in Jan van Embden. We’re married forever and have two daughters – Mieke who is now also a past pupil and Corinne who at an early age decided on an all-girls’ convent because “boys are so disruptive.” Atta girl! So back to those mixed memories… Well, mostly they’re incredibly fond, but I did go through a spate of late slips which resulted in picking up lots of litter. And then there was the jeans incident. I thought they were the business, but Bro. Jim wasn’t into frayed hems at the time and stapled them somewhere around my calves from where they fluttered hideously for the rest of the day. As one of a few girls in a sea of boys there were far more embarrassing moments, but let’s move on to the good stuff. Does anyone remember a flag collection day when Bobby Sugrue, in a bid to outdo everybody in the competition, told the public that we were raising funds for homeless and orphaned children in a charitable institution in Loughlinstown? In fairness to him, he did marvellously well. There were rumours that other people used some of the proceeds to pay for a game of snooker somewhere off Grafton Street to relieve the boredom, but it’s not true. We didn’t do it. Declan Winstanley made me laugh so much in Business Studies I often had to go to the library, and it was nothing to do with his Bay City Rollers inspired tartan phase. Arthur Hallinan was a Rolling Stones fan who sewed their famous tongue logo on to his schoolbag, Dermot Lacey looked like the singer Don McLean (little did we know then you'd one day look out of the Mansion House into that Starry Starry Night as Lord Mayor) and George O’Brien had beautiful dark brown ringlets. Speaking of hair, the L’Oreal trophy had to go to Lonan Boylan who, as we all know, is the driving force behind next year’s reunion. Thank you Lonan. Great idea and we all look forward to it. Jan’s driving. No, he isn’t, he tells me. We’re going to get one of those taxi cabs. Probably share it with John Young and his gorgeous, lovely wife Lisa whom we’re delighted to call friends to this day and who are planning to come all the way from Iowa for the occasion. As Garvan Browne says on this site, he spent some time there a few years ago without realising John was living down the road. Hate tha’! We’re also pleased to have had the pleasure of Garvan’s company now and again over the years. We were at a party in his house just over a year ago when we bumped into Paul Nash who was such fun I didn’t want to leave. How sad then to learn of Paul’s death this year from cancer. May he rest in peace along with other classmates who have left this world ahead of us. I hope they join us in spirit for what promises to be a memorable reunion. [Sept. '06] |
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| Lesley Ncube '02: Hi everyone, Just have seen the website, great way to keep in touch with past classmates. I am Senior Sales Executive for AXA Assistance, Ireland and living in Athlone. Howdy everybody. [Nov. '07] |
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Alex Nicassio '81: I left Dublin and St. Laurence in the spring of 1980, prior to 6th year, and returned to Louisiana ( Southern USA ). I attended High School for 3 months and was advised to go to University, which I did in Spring 1981. I joined the US Air Force, and after 4 years got tired of that and joined the Army. I came back to Ireland and stayed for a year doing retreats with the Mustard Seed retreat team. I returned to the USA , and after moving a couple of times I relocated to Louisiana . I returned to LSU in 1990 for my Masters Degree (MPA) and got that in 1993. Since then I have worked on various projects – mostly IT and IT Management work. I was the lead IT guy at our city hospital – Our Lady of the Lake, and then I went to Atlanta, Georgia to work for Giant Studios where I assisted in several movies including The Lord of the Rings. In 2001 I got married to Kim Richardson. I brought her to Ireland in 1999 for a visit – she met some of the teachers at the school, and we visited the Brother’s house while there. We are blessed with 2 children – one is 4 years old now (Alexandra Elise) and the other is almost 2 (Colin Joseph). I started working for The Home Depot in 2004, where I still work as Manager of IT operations for their Call Centers and warehouses in 8 states. I just got a promotion, and am being relocated to Atlanta (again). I have tried to stay in contact with some of my old friends from St. Laurence – I visited Declan Gaffney and I stay in close contact with Alan McGregor, who lives close to Boston . I plan to bring the wife and kids back to Ireland for another grand tour as soon as they can travel. I remember so much from my St. Laurence days that I would not know where to start! * I remember the day Suzanne Moore broker her wrist * I remember the Stratford on Avon trip where we had a lot of fun – I have pictures still! * I clearly remember annoying Bro. Jim by pretending to be a teacher (Math) and greeting parents when they came to the school * I remember dressing up every day in 3 piece suits – I almost never get dressed up now – Ha! * The thing I remember most was the great friends I made those days – although they are long gone and probably do not remember me, I will never forget everyone I met there. I will send some pictures soon [June '06] |
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John O’Brien '77: Hello to all at Saint Laurence. I have just discovered that there is to be a class re-union next year. I have been married twice (my first wife Caroline died from cancer 11 years ago) and I have five lovely kids, one a Religion and History teacher in Balbriggan; another works back in Ireland in a local supermarket; another son lives here with me here in Spain. My two little girls live with their mother in Wexford, unfortunately!!!! When I left Laurences I went on to work as an electrician and eventually ended up working in the TV and film business. Then tragedy struck, the sad loss of Caroline encouraged me to make the decision to go back to college. I earned a joint honours degree (Geography and Sociology) from Trinity in 2000 and began a new career path. I now live here in Torreveija, close to Alicante with my wonderful partner, Susi who is a Spanish national and works as primary teacher. I am also a teacher. We would love to go back for a re-union in the near future and to meet my fellow classmates and the staff . Kindest regards. [Oct. '06] |
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Paul O'Connell '00R: I am involved in a charity expedition this summer to raise money for the Christina Noble Children's Foundation (CNCF). How we’ll raise the money Starting on the 21st of July myself and a friend from law school are setting off from Hyde Park in London with the aim of successfully arriving in Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia just ONE month later. We will be one of 200 teams taking part in the event- the Mongol Rally. There are five routes that can be taken to Mongolia and we have decided to tackle the most arduous, though rewarding, of the five- the southern route. This will take us across Western Europe, south through the Balkans and east through Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and across the Caspian Sea to Turkmenistan; we will then head north through Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Russia; finally we will go east again through Mongolia. This will be an epic journey, covering approximately 15,000 miles (or 1/4 of the worlds surface) requiring us to drive 400 miles a day! The challenge is then doubled by the requirement that the journey is made in a 1 litre banger (an old Micra or the like)! Obviously its going to be an amazing personal experience, but our prime goal is to raise as much money as possible for charity. We need to raise a minimum of €600 for CNCF, though with your help we are hoping to raise much more. We have set up a Just Giving webpage where donations can be made: http://www.justgiving.com/perseverancemongolrally The Christina Noble Children’s Foundation We think you’ll agree that CNCF is one of the most respected Irish charities in the world and that it is doing amazing work in Mongolia; as such it is worthy of your support. The following is brief summary of the projects that CNCF is currently undertaking in Mongolia:
Please feel free to visit the CNCF website for more information: Finally, we know that there will be the temptation to see this as funding us to go off on a holiday! We can categorically assure you that this is NOT the case. All money is directly given to the charities. Plus, we will be driving an average of 400 miles a day, which does not leave any time for sunbathing or sightseeing. Before signing on to do the rally we were clearly warned of the dangers involved in going through some of the most unstable countries in the world. In fact, past participants have been chased by armed bandits toting the weapon of choice in the region - the AK-47! It’s going to be tough, but we firmly believe we can succeed, and to support CNCF it will be worth the risk. Thank you, Paul O'Connell 2000. [May 2007] |
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John O’Connor '86: has a First Class Honours Degree in Business, specialising in Psychology and a First Class Honours Master of Business Studies from UCD. He is also is an active member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development and Irish Institute of Training and Development. John has many years experience providing training across a variety of sectors including Retail, Wholesale, Petrochemical and Building industries. John is also trained and qualified as a Counsellor and Psychotherapist. His work is influenced by Person Centred, Gestalt and Psychosynthesis approaches to therapy and human development. John enjoys working with a variety of clients and believes strongly in the potential of psychotherapy to help the individual explore, grow and develop. For further information or to contact John see his website on www.dublin.ie/counselling [Dec '05] |
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Neville O’Donohoe '75: I have been working as a teacher and chaplain at St. Laurence College for the last three years following my return from studies at the Marianist Community in Rome. I still teach some business subjects but focus more on Religious Education and offering the students experiences of prayer and reflection. [Oct. '05] |
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Ciaran O’Hare '94 & '95: I came across the past pupil website while browsing and thought I would say hello! Well since leaving St Laurences I've been keeping myself busy mainly by working in the I.T. industry. Thankfully I've made a lot of progress and I am currently a Project Management Consultant working in the Public Sector. I've been fortunate enough to be able to travel a lot too. While taking a year out in 03 I went on a trip of a life time and fell for an Aussie girl from Perth . We are now living together in Dundrum and we are looking to get married in the near future! I have very fond memories of St Laurence College. I led a full life and the lessons I learned both in class and by the friendship I had with the brothers/teachers have helped me through my life. I am not saying I was a saint by any means – I am sure you can probably remember one or two instances where I wasn't! I was wondering if our class of 94 or 95 (as I repeated) if we'd be having a reunion at some stage? |
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| Conor O'Keeffe '76: (Delgany, Co. Wicklow and formerly of Merville Road, Stillorgan) Oct. 18, 2006, (suddenly), at home, Conor, dearly beloved husband of Freda and loving father to Eóin, Ciarán and Graínne; sadly missed by his loving wife, sons, daughter, brothers Eugene, Eddie and Johnny, sisters Ruth, Patsy and Jackie, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends. R.I.P. Reposing at Patrick O'Donovan and Son Funeral Home, Ormonde Centre, Victoria Road, Greystones. Removal this (Friday) evening to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Greystones, arriving at 7 o'c. Funeral tomorrow (Saturday) morning after 10 o'c. Mass to Kilquade New Cemetery. [Oct. '06] | ||||||
Ian O’Keeffe '99: Those who knew me won't be surprised to hear that I'm still studying, 6 years after leaving St. Laurence College! |
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John O’Mahony '85: I have been living in Limerick since 1999. After graduating from College I went to work in the UK for a few years and then decided to go back to college for my PhD. For some last minute unknown reason I went to Australia for my PhD (Brisbane), which was a good thing, as I met my wife there, Sunghwa. We did a short spell in Pennsylvania together before returning to Ireland where we have been ever since. Life is pretty good. I am working as a technical manager for a Limerick based company and Sunghwa is working for a pharmaceutical company in Ennis. Please pass on my regards to all the teachers and staff at the college and do please put me on the schools mailing list. [Nov. '05] |
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Shane O' Neill ’97 here: just googled the college and found that ye had a reunion. I’m living on the Sunshine coast in Queensland Australia – just moved up from Sydney . I am engaged to an Irish girl who I met in Greece 9 years ago – have travelled around for awhile – now settled, working for myself as contract carpenter – all is good here – will be back in Ireland for Paddies Day for a month – might see a few past-pupils in the pubs – you never know .SLAN... Put a few more photos up or send me some please. [Jan '08] |
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Graham O’Rourke '90: I went to DCU from 1990-1995 and graduated with an B.Eng (Electronics), now married and a proud father to our daughter Aobh. I am currently living in Drogheda, Co. Louth. With my wife Louisa we run a successful web design agency www.morsolutions.com. I'm involved in many business organisations now in the North East including www.droghedachamber.com, www.midasinitiative.com, www.louthleader.com. I have a gallery of photos that I keep kinda up to date if you are interested! - http://mortest.com/gallery/ [Oct. '05] |
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Lorraine O'Rourke '95: I am a qualified accountant technician and am currently working full time & studying partime to become a certified accountant. My studies are coming along quite well. I've got exams in 2 weeks. After all these years I'm still slogging away. Never thought leaving school that I would still be studying at the age of 27 but the fact that I work full time at least I've got some money in my pocket also. It would be absolutely great to get in contact with some old school friends from my year. [Nov. '05] |
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| Kevin O’Sullivan '74: I went straight into the Dept of Posts and Telegraphs on the technical side much to Ms O'Shea’s consternation leaving in 6th year. I have remained through the various manifestations which have taken place in the company since: being a civil servant, an employee of a public company, an employee of a private company, public company again and soon to be private again.
I spent the first half of my career working in all aspects on the technical side of the business before deciding in 1990 to move into the business end following completion of an accounting qualification and Marketing degree. (I guess Ms. O'Shea rubbed off on me as it was something I really wanted to get back to when family commitments allowed.) Again I have had a varied and interesting work career on the business side, which involved me meeting and working with interesting people in an multinational environment as the company evolved through different ownership models. I also spent three years abroad working in and managing a couple of subsidiary business in 1999-2002. I am currently looking after the Eircom international business, including our overseas sites, which I have to say is an ideal fit for me as I like travel and meeting different people and love the buzz involved in the area of technology change. I have been very lucky in life and have been married for 26 years to my childhood sweetheart and have two surviving children and an adorable grandson. How time flies. Anyway enough about me, please keep me on your mail list and lets keep in contact. Best regards. [July ’06] |
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Rachel (O’Sullivan) White '95: Just want to stay in contact for now. [Feb. '06] |
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Joe Peacock ‘89: Being a vain git i Googled myself and the web site came up with my name on it, and i just spent over an hour reading through it and recalling names and faces and the things we got up to. Well the long and short of it is: have been married, have 3 great children, got divorced, met someone else and now am expecting twins – due late June 08. Have had a selection of jobs between leaving Larry`s and now: starting out in Vincent’s Hospital, then onto the building sites, then into a factory for a while, then worked for myself, then worked for a builder in Wicklow and now working doing building maintenance. What’s the story on a reunion next year for the 20th anniversary of our breaking free/being let loose on the world? Would be nice to meet up with the rest of ya`s over a beer and have a chat about the good old times. Cheers and all the best [May 08] |
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David Percy '84: Hi all. Even though I only attended the college for only two years before returning to Canada , I have nothing but fond memories of those times. Looking over the list of fellow classmates, I chuckle to myself at all the fun times we had. It’s great to hear that everyone is doing so well and I hope more people add to this website. I have always wondered what happened to everyone. Upon completing school in Canada , I joined the Canadian Coast Guard and worked my way up from a Rescue Specialist to a Captain of a Search and Rescue Hovercraft. I have recently left the Coast Guard and am taking some time off with my wife (no children) in rural Canada to get my land legs back. I will keep an eye on this site for future updates and everyone take care. [June '06] |
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Glenn Perry '92: The web site is a great idea and brings back a lot of memories (mostly good) when you look over the names. I bumped into Susan Cassidy today and she told me that she had posted a message on the site so I decided to have a look. On a personal note I have relocated to the Blanchardstown area as I could not afford to buy a house out in Dun Laoghaire . From school I studied Social Studies in Athlone and ended up working with the Health Board for many years. I decided to go back to college (N.U.I Maynooth) and finished my Masters about 4 years ago. For the last 2-and-a-half years I have been working as an Educational Welfare Officer for the National Education Welfare Board and cover the Dublin 15 area. I met Ms. McNamara about a year ago at a talk about the E.W.B. I still have contact with Louise Lacey and Rachel Byrne. Anthony Byrne also got in contact with me a couple of weeks ago. It would be great to all meet up again. I think it would be great to organise a reunion so let me know if anyone else is interested. [June ‘06] |
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Sharon Perry ’88: Having left Laurence's at 15, I became a Hairdresser for 10 years and decided to travel abroad for the summer in 1992. I landed in Paris and stayed for almost 3 years. When I returned home I decided I wanted to return to education (should have stayed in the first place!!) and went to UCC as a mature student where I did a degree in Social Science, which I absolutely loved. While there I met my partner Ollie, a Dub, and we now have two children, Justin 6 and Isobel nearly 3. I came back home once more, in 1999 and started working in the Community Development area where I have worked in the addiction field as a Project Worker and then as a Development Worker in Bray. Between these I also did a short stint back at Laurence's, which was great, although strange – calling our teachers by their first names! I am now a Project Manager of a Family Resource Centre in Greystones and am living in Dun Laoghaire , and am still continuing to learn and do courses as I have definitely been bitten by that bug. Hope you are all well and enjoying your lives. Myself and Avril Williams want to organise a reunion this year for our 20th anniversary and would love to hear from everyone who is interested in meeting up as it would be great to see everyone again...my contact details are with Bro Jim if you want to ring or email. [April 08] |
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Stephen Poulton '81: Hi there. Just found the web site and decided to say hello. Since leaving school I have had a varied career: from truck driving, electrician, and for the past 18 years various positions in Pfizer Ireland , Pharmaceuticals on Pottery Road . I have 4 children: Amy, Rachel, Shane and Stephen, I also have grandson, Caylem. I was divorced 4 years ago and am engaged to be married again. Regards. [June '06] |
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Ben Prenter '89 & '90R: Reunion a great idea. Would love to see friends from the past! Cant believe it’s 16 years. Hope everybody is well. Working as head store-man in the Housing Department. Living happily in Sallynoggin with my girlfriend and two daughters. Would like to see you all and have a legal drink for once! God Bless. [June ‘06] |
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David Quigley '84: Great to see all the class names after 20+ years and notes from others. After spending a bunch of time in the UK and France. I am now living in New York and am happily married and enjoying life. Cheers. [March '06] |
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Rachelle Ralph '89: I was only there for a year and a half but it is the memories from St Laurence's that I remember most from my schooldays. Mr. McGuinness and Mr. Murtagh would be really surprised to find that I use lots of Maths & English in my job as payroll software analyst\technical writer. I have lived in Brisbane for the past 3 years and in Sydney for the 8 before that. I have a wonderful husband, a dog and a happy, quite life away from the big smoke. Would love to come home for the reunion for a catchup, just hope that I can make it. [Sept. ‘06] |
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Michael Roche ’75: I was delighted to view the updated website for St. Laurence's. The list of class names evoked many fond memories of my brief time at the school. Just seeing my own name on the list as well, made me feel instantly connected to the school's past. My parents (originally from Ireland ) had settled in Canada . After 13 years in Canada , they decided to relocate our family to Dun Laoghaire . My parents and seven children arrived in Ireland in September 1971. During the first year living in Ireland my brother Patrick and I attended Monkstown College (1971-1972). The next year however, we were enrolled in St. Laurence's and attended from 1972-1973. My family returned to Canada in the fall of 1973. I have very happy memories of the year I attended St. Laurence's. A number of the teachers (Mr. Murtagh, Mr. Leonard, Mr. Moran, Brother Kelly, just to name a few) inspired my interest in learning. The friendships that my brother and I made that year are still remembered (David and Thomas McAuliffe, Philip O’Halloran as well as fellow members of the basketball team). I was surprised at how many names I recognized though I attended the school for only one year. I currently reside in Hamilton , Canada . My wife Carmelina and I have two children. In August 2005 we vacationed in Ireland , and I managed to drive by St. Laurence's. I instantly recognized the building and proudly pointed the school out to my children. I was amazed by the development to the surrounding area! Great website! Sincerely [April ‘07] |
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Dan Rooney ‘78: I stumbled across this website when I was Wiki-ing "Sallynoggin" and one thing came to another. I was amazed to see my name listed in this class, as I only attended First and Second year before I moved to America in the summer of 1975. What I remember most about the school was that it was way different than the national primary I attended in the Noggin, a lot more open and modern and forward-thinking. Then there was the library with the big globe in the middle; my miserable woodworking class performance with Mr. Doherty; a few years before, my brother Peter was lauded as brilliant; getting to skip Irish on a technicality (being American-born); walking to school down Rochestown Avenue and Ballybrack in the dark of winter, or getting the 45A bus to school and walking from the village centre; and, getting a few from Frank McGuinness! Some of the names I see on the list I still remember: playing schoolboy (U-13 maybe?) football for the school with Aidan McCluskey, who was a very good player. I was the 'keeper on that team and we made it all the way to Tolka Park and a regional schoolboy FAI final of some sort in the spring of 1975, I think. Still have the medal! I also remember my friends Alan Larkin, who I met on a subsequent trip back in 1979, and Ken Scanlon. And, I remember Kelly Hyde being one of three girls in the class at that time, and she being all the rage, being female AND American! (I believe our class was the first to admit girls.) As for me, I ended up moving to Hartford, Connecticut, going to a Catholic high school over here that had no football team, one of the few in the state at the time that didn't (lots of players I played club football with at the time got free scholarships to university); I then joined the US Navy since I originally was born here. I was stationed in London for two years and made many trips back to nearby Beechwood Lawn, where I grew up. I returned to Hartford in 1983, attended university for a bit and played football while enrolled, but dropped out, and have been here ever since. I have been going back to Dublin every year or so ever since then, as I have a brother living up in the Wicklow mountains. I'm married to a lovely wife, and we have two lovely daughters, and I'm still playing organized football - and watching Man. United every chance I get. If anyone's interested, my contact info is out there on the web either at glastonburycelticfc.com or ctsoccer.org, and I also gave it to Bro. Jim for the class e-mail directory. Next time I come over, I'll have to stop in, for sure. [Oct ‘07] |
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Janet Rorke-Wills: '84: My sister , Anne ( another past pupil ) , told me that there is a class reunion today; so I checked out the web site and am blown away by how good it is! It brings back a lot of really good memories to see all the photos and the list of everyone’s name, although it's very sad to see RIP beside some of the names. After leaving St. Laurence I went to Cathal Brugha St and studied to be a chef. I worked in many hotels in Ireland and then in London for a couple of years. I returned to Ireland , and continued to work in the catering industry. I've been married to my wonderful husband, Brian for 14 years now, and we have two beautiful children; Daragh (10) and Shona (8). We live in Australia ( Melbourne ). We migrated after falling in love with the place while holidaying here 6 years ago, and we haven't looked back since. My qualifications and skills gave us the chance to move here and the gas thing is that I haven't worked as a chef since I set foot in the country!! I'm enjoying taking care of my family and doing some little bits of part time work here and there. At the moment we're in the process of trying to find a high school to send Daragh, and all I find myself saying is: " I know exactly where to send him if I still lived in Dublin." So here's hoping that we find a school that will match even a little to what St. Laurence’s taught me. Please pass on a BIG G'DAY to everyone at the reunion tonight; I would love to be able to be there. Also anyone who visits the website , do get in touch, it would be great to see how people are getting on. Well done Bro Jim on the website, you've done a really great job! Regards to all. [Sept. ‘06] |
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Francis Rubalcava '78: After leaving school I did a 4 year bricklaying course. In 1983 I went to Los Angles, Calif. and ended up starting a construction company. In 1996, after a couple earthquakes, I returned to buy a house in Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow. I again started a construction company, which has been good to me. This past summer I built a house for Jo Bowers, who was the college librarian. I am married with 2 children. [Jan. '06] |
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Ken Rush '72: I was one of the first students at the College. Brother John O’Connor was both my mentor and friend. I was a total flop at school although I did win the first Best all around sports award. Since those days I have been married for 25 years, have 3 wonderful children. One is on the way to Ireland as the Mitchell Scholar Award recipient. We live in the USA and own some small business companies employing about 60 people. I’d love to hear about how Brother John is getting along. We have just been hit by a Category 3 Hurricane and been blasted, to say the least. A quick story. In Religion class, Brother John and I used to have long debates. During one of these debates, I asked why, based on what had just been discussed, was it necessary to impose a maximum length of hair for boys. At the time he replied with a quite outrageous (before its time) comment, that he agreed. Shortly afterwards we were the first school where the lads were allowed to grow their hair. After I left school, I hitchhiked to Africa and India and went through many places on the way, so I had little contact with other past-pupils. Besides Africa and India, I spent years in Nepal, China, Australia and another 100 or so countries and I think I have referred to Brother John in conversations in all of them. I am sure he has no idea how important and how significant an impact he had on my life. He taught me to question everything and be arrogant about nothing and that the older we get the more we know what we don’t know. To learn that at 16 (or at least have the concept presented with meaning) has changed my life. Many thanks, I now have got to get back to cutting trees down and such stuff. Take care and love to hear any news [Oct. '05] |
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David Ryan '83: It's been a long time since leaving. I am hoping that there will be a chance to catch up with some of the class of ‘83.!!! On our web page, it was great to read and see what people are doing with there lives. Well, as for me, I still work with horses – a work I have always loved. I have moved back down to Coolmore Stud in Co. Tipperary where I am once again very happy. Hoping to hear from others in the class. Best wishes. [March ‘07] |
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Ken Scanlon ’78:
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John Scott ’77: I received your information about the reunion in February. -- unfortunately, I was away that weekend and couldn't attend. I lead quite an interesting life - I went to UCD and graduated in 1980 with a degree in English and Greek and Roman Civilisation. I then started to perform and study dance and was apprenticed to Dublin City Ballet. I founded my own company: Irish Modern Dance Theatre in 1991. We have toured in France , USA , Sweden, Bulgaria, Brazil, Estonia and Turkey. You can see some of my work on You Tube if you search for Irish Modern Dance Theatre, or on our web page www.irishmoderndancetheatre.com. I also train and work as an opera singer, a tenor and have worked with Opera Ireland and various other groups. I also work with refugees and torture survivors. It’s great to read the various entries by people on the past pupils web page. I have great memories of St Laurences and the great teachers and their positive attitude. I'm making a living and I travel a lot but am not getting rich, yet. Hopefully someday. Many good wishes. [Dec. ‘07] |
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Dara Shakespeare (r.i.p.) '81: Copied from the Dundrum South Dublin Athletic Club Website: Regretfully we heard about Dara Shakespeare's untimely death at the age of 42 years, last week. Dara was a long time member of both South Dublin and then D.S.D. athletics clubs. She was a member of the DSD womens team that won the National League three times and competed in the European Clubs C'ships in Lisbon, Como and Switzerland in the mid '80's. She was the first woman to throw the javelin over 50m and was Irish record holder. She won numerous National Titles and was a valuable club member. She was in latter years involved in coaching and helped Anne Marie Whelan and Grace McDonagh with the javelin. She was one of the club coaches on our inaugural warm weather training trip to Lanzarote. She will be greatly missed. Our sympathy goes to her brothers Geoff (a former triple jumper with the club) and Richard. Bro. Jim adds, "Dara's determination and spirit of helpfulness as a student, past-pupil and support to the college mark her as one beautiful person. Please say a prayer for her." [July '05] |
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Sandra Sheridan (r.i.p.) '94: (Shankill, Co. Dublin) Aug 19, 2006, (suddenly), at home, Sandra, loving mammy to Emma and loving daughter of Patricia and Paul; sadly missed by her loving daughter, mammy, daddy, brothers, sisters, grandad, aunties, uncles, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Rest in peace. Removal tomorrow (Tuesday) evening at 4.40 o'c. from Loughlinstown Hospital to St. Anne's Church Shankill, arriving for 5 o'c. Reception Prayers. Funeral on Wednesday morning after 11.30 o'c. Requiem Mass to Shanganagh Cemetery. Posted: 21/08/2006. Note Sandra is from Shankill and not to be confused with Sandra '84 who lived in Ballybrack. [Aug '06] |
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Peter Simons '74: I did the Leaving in '74 and repeated it in '75 – the school had only recently become co-ed with no more than a dozen girls. One of these was the now famous Mariella Froestrup. I am afraid I was not a very good student. Perhaps all boys go through a rough patch. Certainly in the mid 70s we were not as material- or career-focused as young people seem to have become. I wasn't a good Christian either. Also a class-mate, Peter Cook, was killed tragically in a freak motorcycle accident. Fr Bartholomew had been replaced by Fr Richard Loehrlein. I became a “lapsed Catholic” as a teenager – a Catholic by tradition rather than conviction. You might be surprised to learn that my employer after school, Bank of Ireland, gave me a scholarship to go to Trinity from 80 – 84 and later again to take an MBA at City in London90-91. And I took banking and accountancy qualifications along the way – so I have actually turned out to be an OK student and have built on what I learned at St Laurence's I may still not be a good Christian but I am at least a practising Catholic again and active in my local parish here in Chiswick, London. In common with many in the mid to late 80’s, I thought my prospects looked grim in Ireland and headed for London. I have been here since ’86. I may have missed out on the Celtic Tiger boom but I am very settled, enjoying relaxed contentment as a husband and father to 3 lively children here in leafy west London. My only contact with St Laurence since leaving school has been: As I was working down the country, I used to attend the midnight mass on Christmas Eve (75-80) as a means of bumping into old friends. I answered an ad to buy a 2nd hand motorcycle once and the ‘one careful owner’ turned out to be Robert Nutty another past-pupil. I bought an old mustard coloured MG midget in about ’84 and the log book showed that it had been the very one owned by Michael Heaney our former PE and history teacher (I kept this car for may years until it was stolen in ’92). I am still friendly with old class mates such as Henry Mathews and Myles Thorn who have both stayed in Dublin to enjoy the boom. Please let me know if I can be any help to you as a London based alumni. Regards [Dec. '05] |
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Angie Sperry-Campe ‘82: Dear Graduates of St. Laurence, my name is Angie Campe, but perhaps you remember me as Angela Sperry. I am American and went to St. Laurence from about 1977 ‘til 1980. My best friends were Caoilfihionn Costello and Grainne O'Neill, along with Patricia, Helen, Martina, Connor Caufield, Patrick, Ronan, Kevin (I honestly can't remember all the last names). I wish I knew about a reunion, because I am bringing my children to see Ireland next summer. I want them, 1 girl (Shannon) and 1 boy (Ryan) to see the land I loved so much before I moved back to America . I am desperate to find Caoilfhionn or Grainne so if anyone knows of them please e-mail. After all it's been 25 years and there never was e-mail back then! I have so many fond memories, and the pictures on the website made me cry! I was only at St. Laurence for 3 years, I don't know if anyone remembers me, but I was the only American besides the Brothers. (Brother Jim was headmaster) Remember when we went to Paris on the Ferry? I was so sad to see T.J. has passed away. He was my first kiss. I am so happy to see the website; it brings back so many wonderful memories, really the best of my life. I went to University of Illinois and became an artist. I freelance and have 2 children and would be rather poor except I met my husband at school, and he is a lawyer. Let me tell you, don't try and make a living as an artist!!! I currently live in Libertyville , IL , which is north of Chicago. I have a B.F.A in painting, but really ended up a jack of all trades. Being a stay at home mom I really needed to work out of the house, so I paint watercolors mostly, usually house "portraits" which people commission me as gifts. (I used to do children's portraits as well). As my kids got older and I was able to leave the house I started getting a lot of commissions to do wall murals. I've done schools, day-care, and a lot of children's rooms. Once a year I have a show with a friend who is a jeweller, and then I show sample artwork, small scenes or still life, and also hand painted glass work and other more craft type things. Sometimes clients will come up with some crazy ideas of their own, so it's always changing. I can tell you how it has really pulled at my heartstrings! I will stay in touch. We will definitely come by this summer for a visit to the college. Well, you know us Americans, all we do is talk! So for now I send my heartfelt greetings.....with memories of fieldtrips to Powerscourt, and Glendalough, and silly dances in the gym, grass fights in the fields, and Halloweens where you get apples and peanuts instead of candy. All my love, Angie Sperry-Campe [Dec. ‘07] |
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David Steinegger '78: I still have great memories from my years at St Laurence. The highlights for me included the canoe trips with Brother Ed - does anyone remember these? We had a great weekend in Clare, surf canoeing and a harrowing trip on the Barrow in full flood, when we almost lost one of the team, caught in a huge "stopper". After leaving school and finishing UCD, I trained with Craig Gardner in Dublin before moving to Switzerland and then London , working for various banks and insurance companies. It probably sounds boring, but then again my favourite class at school was Accountancy with Ms. O'Shea! I have lived in Luxembourg for the last 6 years, happily married with 3 children. If anyone has a contact for Mark Murphy, can you let me know as it would be great to get in touch again. [June ‘06] |
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Lisa (Stubbs) Penwell ’86 & ‘87: Congratulations on the website, it is fab and for all the work that you have done in re-opening doors to old friendships and possible new ones too! What I've been at: I started my career in the health service in Ireland and then moved to Southampton, UK in 1995 and no matter how hard I've tried over the years, I still end up going back and back and back to work within the health service. I just love the environment, I'm a sucker. I have had some fun jobs in between which have paid much better but haven't had the same job satisfaction. I finally finished up in the I.T. Department, Southampton University Trust Hospital before I left the UK in 2007. Myself and my husband decided that we would like to rear our family here. I count myself lucky to have finally met and married my sole mate (my funny romantic English man) and we now have two fab kiddies, Somer will be 3 in Feb 08 and Jamey has just turned six months on Saturday. We now live in Wexford just outside the town and love it down here, it is a superb town and so accessible to Dublin without the traffic and hassle of city living. It would be great to hear from anyone from either year 1986 or 1987. By sheer chance I bumped into Lorraine Daly now Martin (1987) in my local Tesco's way back in September 07 and we catch up regularly now as she is only down the road. I bummed that I missed out on the 1987 class reunion in August, but Jamey was only a few weeks old, at that point. I heard that it was fun. I've seen the photos and would have loved to catch up with Davo and Maria. Something I found out only recently, that I am dyslexic, I wished I'd know years ago, as I hated Mr. Murtagh's English Class. I struggled so much with Honours English but I'm a determined bugger, so it has never got in my way since. Hope to hear from you soon with any contact details and any news. Good luck for the future. [Jan 08] |
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Bob "Bobby" Sugrue '77: I have the fondest memories of my time in Laurences, even though I always seemed to have been in some sort of trouble. It was never too serious but sufficient to have “Robert Sugrue, please report to the office” paged far too often for my liking. To this day I cringe when someone calls me Robert. After Laurences I repeated to get into Trinity -- a somewhat fun-filled & eventful 4 years, saw me barely escaping with a degree in Systems Sciences to then pursue an H.Dip. at Maynooth. I had the great pleasure of doing my practical teaching in Laurences under Frank McGuiness, an inspirational teacher who gave freely of his time. I went to South Africa in 1984 where I had a most fulfilling 6 months teaching in a township outside Soweto . For my sins, I ended up in the IT industry & eventually had my own company. In 1991 I met & married my wife Marinda & over the next 4 years had 3 children; Elaine, Cormac & Danka. Following a family holiday to Ireland , Marinda convinced me that Ireland would be a better place to raise children and so in late 1999 we settled in Malahide. We visit SA every two years & miss it a lot. I work for a small IT company in Dun Laoghaire , but enough of that. Our lives seem to revolve around the kids and their many activities, including sailing & competitive swimming. I am active in the sailing club and am a keen, though less than brilliant sailor. With Elaine in secondary school & Cormac about to start, I often reflect on the positive influence the Brothers & teachers had on our lives & I fervently hope that my children enjoy a similar experience in their chosen schools. I look forward to meeting everybody at the reunion. [June ‘06] |
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Colin Swan '85 & '86: This web site is a great idea, it really is strange to read the names and remember faces of our class. After school I went to the College of Marketing and then onto DCU for a Business Degree. Since DCU I went to Australia for a year and then to San Francisco and Boston . I am currently in San Francisco with Jodie my Canadian wife. Two other class mates live in the bay area that I know of, Paul Turner and recently Ronan McNamara. We all work for software companies. Prior to working with software companies I ran a marketing and sales company for Investment Managers. Jim and the Brothers are doing a great job. I read St. Laurence was ranked #2 in Ireland , nice job and congratulations. I heard about a reunion but can’t make it over. I keep in contact with some people from my class but would like to keep in contact with more. All the best. [May ‘06] |
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J Thomas '88: Like most, I miss my school days and often lament wasted opportunities “but we did have a lot of fun” Most importantly for me, Marie Therese and I got married on the 17th of November 2006 and not before time I might add & very good times were had by all. We have three fine daughters: Chloe, Molly and Jodie – all beautiful & healthy. We are all living happily together in the borough, raising each other the best we can. Seven out of 95 people in our class have made contact – that’s a little disappointing – I don’t remember too many people being overly shy way back when, so no excuses I often get asked by my daughters as we pass by the college “what’s that?” I reply with a chuckle “It’s a spaceship.” This always brings my mind right back to MY first thoughts on the school as I approached its doors on entrance exam day, meeting Bros Fred, Joe, Leo, Jim and Gerry for the first time and, of course, all of you who later knew me. 5 years seems like nothing now, but it was a lifetime then. What seemed important then is nothing but a memory now, however, some of these memories stand the test of time and gladly seem unerasable. To my friends from St Laurence College, "youth is wasted on the young." [April '07 ] |
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Joseph Tighe '72 : Ken,do you remember the time we were in the Library, when PE teacher, Mr Heaney walked in and called out three names? Yours, my brother, Hilary’s and mine. I did not know what was in store for us. We were led outside to the front of the building (now a soccer pitch) to throw the javelin. You won the contest and I still have the medal for coming second (and by the way, I still have my school tie). I’m sure I saw Mr. Heaney in town some years ago. I remain a bachelor and live in Stillorgan. My brother married a Cork girl and lives in Mallow. Since leaving in’72 I have had a variety of jobs and am presently doing a course in computers, just across the road from the old school. I remember going to see Martin Carolan, the Mittens and the rest of their band play in Mt. Merrion back in the 1970. I wonder what has happened to them. And Bro. Kelly, Fr. Hickey, Firmin Widmer and John O’Connor (ed. note: Kelly is in Dayton in the Marianist Care Centre – still laughing about his “baby dumplings,” Fr. Hickey has since died, both Firmin and John married and are living in the States). I am sorry to read that Alan Connaughton and Ciaran Hayden have died. Slan leat go foill [May ‘06] |
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Ricky Treacy '85: Have just had that phone call from Jennifer Mohan. Reunion is a great idea. Will be making the effort to get there. I have been working in Stewarts Hospital with people with learning disabilities for the past 20 years. I am married to Lorraine, possibly the only person who can put up with me. We have three great children Joshua 10, Isaac 8 and Zimira 5. Moved to Celbridge in 1991 and so have had little contact with my former class mates. I am still in St John ambulance and do quiet a lot of voluntary work in the pre-hospital emergency field. I look forward to seeing some old friends May. [March '06] |
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| Michael Tuite '75: I have been in Galway since 1990 and am well settled into life here. I married Maria Walls (originally from Belfast but whom I met in Dublin ) in 1993. We have two boys: Eoghan, age 9, and Cormac age 1 who are both a delight! Maria works for the national federation of voluntary bodies based here in Galway – they represent the various organisations for people with learning disabilities in Ireland .
Before getting a “real job” I studied Maths Science in UCD, spent a miserable year at CalTech, Pasadena , Cal. and three happy years in Cambridge where I got a PhD in theoretical physics. I then returned to Ireland and held a number of post-doctoral and contract lectureships through the 80s in TCD, the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies and DCU. I am still very active in research - my “unreal work”. I have moved interests from theoretical physics to pure maths. My main collaborator is based at Univ Cal Santa Cruz so I travel to the US fairly regularly. I have also had the opportunity through my work to visit many European countries and Japan which I enjoy very much. We visit Dublin from time to time. It would be great to catch up with you again sometime. With best wishes. [July '06] |
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Simon Tuite '78: My memories of St. Laurences remain strong; it was the primary influence on me during formative years. Having come from Christian Brothers, the atmosphere was quite different and somewhat more enlightened ! My 3 brothers had paved the way; Justin & Mathew (1972) and Michael (1975). I found it difficult to live up to the academic standard set by them but was allowed establish my own niche in life and was largely spared the obvious academic comparisons with them. Having gone to work in 78 and subsequently studied in Trinity College at night (not to be recommended as an easy option), I have spent 20+ years in the IT industry in a variety of Irish and international organisations, lastly joining eircom about 5 years ago. By co-incidence, fellow 78'ers Kieran Ryan, Peter Magee and Geoff Shakespeare all work in eircom too. 2 of my own 4 kids are doing their leaving certificate as I write. It's brings back many memories - a strange mix of fear, anticipation and excitement about the future. Cheers .... [June ‘06] |
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Mieke van Embden '03 & '04R: Having finally left the college in '04 after repeating my Leaving under the watchful eyes of Mr. Sweeney and Mrs. McCarry, I'm heading towards the end of 2nd year arts in Trinity doing History of Art and Architecture with Classical Civilisations. It's hard to believe it's nearly ten years since I started in Laurence's! Lots of good memories though - the France/Switzerland and Italy trips for a start - and I still regularly see people from both my years in Laurence's. Hope everyone's doing well! [Feb. '06] |
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John Walls '75: The family moved to Athenry, Co. Galway where I finished out my schooling to very muted applause. After a lot of different approaches to life I am now married and living outside of Boston, Mass. We have 2 boys: Phillip and Conor, 9 and 5. I work for Home Depot, the world's largest home improvement chain. [Oct. '05] |
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Owen Walsh '80: (Dublin) Feb. 12, 2006 (suddenly) in St. James's Hospital Owen (Music teacher of S.C.R and late of Kilmacud) beloved husband of Phyllis and dear father of Sophia, Hugh Patrick; deeply regretted by his loving family and friends. Rest in peace. Reposing at the Larry Massy Funeral Home, 100 Terenure Road North. Removal tomorrow (Thursday) to Kimmage Manor Church arriving at 5.30. Funeral on Friday after 10 o'c. Mass to Mount Venus, Rathfarnham. ( Irish Independent) [Feb. '06] |
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Conor Walton ‘88: My parents are still living in Loughlinstown, so I pass by often, but the area’s changed so much! All those lovely fields where I used to walk my dog are gone. I’m not in touch with anyone from my year. I’m down in Ashford in Wicklow now, found a girl called Jane who teaches climbing; we’ve two boys, 11 months and two years old, so we’ve our hands full. All’s well though; I feel very fortunate to have got to where I am. You can see some of the work I have been doing at http://www.conorwalton.com/ [Dec. '07] |
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Colum Whelan '76: A lot has happened in the 30 years since leaving school but when a few of us talk about those days and the craic we had, well it’s great. I have two brothers, Derek and Stephen, who were there during those years. Both of them are now running the old family business in Harolds Cross - “Harold Eng.” Derek lives in Foxrock, married and has three kids. Stephen lives in the Park, Cabinteely, married and has three kids also. Myself, yep married with four kids (went one better) and live in Galway . Relocated to Galway in 1995 and opened my own business in 1998 ( www.candlindustrial.com) and after some tough years I am happy to say we are into better more successful years and working hard to stay that way. I still keep in constant touch with a few lads from Laurence’s and all of them are doing okay. You see, proof that we were paying attention and most of us went to work immediately after our Inter/Junior Cert. Best Regards, [Sept ‘06] |
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Jane Whelan ‘86: When I came across the website, I thought it was lovely to see the names of people that I have not seen in such a long time and hear what some of you have been up to. After leaving school, I went to the College of Commerce and studied Business and then Marketing. Then I took off travelling for a year and a half. When I came home, I met Ian, whom I married 7 years later! We have two children, Finn aged 5 and Laragh aged 3 and we live in Glenageary. I went back to college to study for my BSc in Human Resource Management and over the years I have mainly worked in training and HR Management positions. I now work as a freelance consultant, which allows me lots of flexibility in how I manage my time between the job and the children. It is all great. Still can't believe that we are over 20 years out of school! Seeing the website has given me the opportunity to reminisce on very happy days. Best of luck to the Brothers and all the past pupils. Best wishes, [April ‘07] |
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Paul Wilcock '87 : I studied Civil Engineering in TCD and moved to Germany in '93 to work for the German Railway. I then went on to work in Malaysia, Thailand and Taiwan on railway projects as an engineer and project manager with Siemens. During this time I met Eileen who is from Co. Mayo and we married in '99. We now live in Shankill and both work for Irish Rail as project managers. [Dec. '05] |
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Anne Williams< |