John Clune: I am living and working in construction in Chicago .  I have been here for almost twelve years, although I return to Dublin three times a year to see my children (Melanie 24, Laura 22, David 18).  I had lived and worked in Dublin since school.  I had always wanted to visit and work in America , and in 1993 I followed my older brother, Michael who had emigrated to Chicago in 1978.  I was a Donnelly Visa winner!  At that time my family accompanied me, only to return to Dublin in 1995.

My daughter Laura, who graduated from Maynooth last year, actually repeated her Leaving Cert at St. Laurence College.  I had the pleasure of picking her up one day from the college, and I visited with Ms O'Shea.  That day I could still feel the bond with St. Laurence's.

I closed the door in my office and looked at each name listed on the web site, in both relevant years (‘74 and ’75), and the fond memories flooded back.  I must admit I have not thought about the school for quite some time.  I was delighted to be able to mind-picture and remember most of them.  It was a good time.

I am proud to say that some of the major influences, and friends, in my life come from St. Laurence's.  To mention but a few: Ms. O'Shea, Fr. Richard, Bro. Widmer, Mr. McGuinness, Mr. Conroy and Peter Cooke.  Some life long buddies are listed in the classes. They know who they are.

Fr. Richard is responsible for my faith, which is still as strong today as it was in Glenmalure, that weekend he brought us on the retreat.  I think that was 1975.  He probably would be surprised to know that, as I was not one to openly display such things.

There were very special people in St. Laurence College, both pupils and staff.  I have always cherished my time there with fond memories.

Thank you for rekindling these memories. [Jan '06]

Paul Kilmartin: Jim thanks for the website information, great to hear from you. I'm living in Canada now with my wife Iris and my two boys, Niall and Callum. All my brothers are doing ok.

I see Brendan Dowling sometimes as he comes up to Toronto from New York and sometimes I go down there. I am dying to tell all of them about the website as soon as possible.

Thanks again. [Aug. 06]

Since graduating I went to DCU and now work I work for myself in Dublin as a marketing CRM consultant. I did have some connection with the school mostly through Ms O Shea who ran the past pupils association but lost touch.  Was impressed to see the college doing well in the educational points, it was not quite that good in my days.  But say no more. 

To remember me I was the one who had his leg fractured during “rugby” practice, I also played on the basketball team.

Regards [March '06]

Kevin O’Sullivan: 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]