2008 Trinity Annual Fund Student Awards

Posted on: 21 May 2008

Brendan McGuirk from the School of Chemistry and Robert Kearns, from the School of Business and School of Social Science and Philosophy, were announced as the winners of the 2008 Trinity Annual Fund Student Awards. Of ten overall nominations there were three finalists. Robbie Woods from School of Medicine was also announced as one of the three finalists at the ceremony, which was held in the Provost House on May 13 last.

“I am delighted to see the fourth Student Awards from the Trinity Annual Fund being awarded today,” stated Provost Dr John Hegarty, at the awards reception. “Trinity prides itself on the unique student experience it offers to students.  This experience however is greatly enriched by the activities undertaken by many students who see the benefit of getting involved with College beyond the academic realm. This spirit is demonstrated by all of today’s finalists.”

The purpose of the awards is to recognise students who have made an outstanding contribution to Trinity life in the past year contributing through working with Sports Clubs, Societies or some other aspect of College life. The Trinity Annual Fund is supported by Trinity graduates who contribute financially to Trinity College for the purpose of supporting grassroots projects and initiatives that enhance the Trinity experience.

Brendan McKuirk has worked hard in all of his activities to encourages students to make College life richer for themselves and those around them. Among Brendan’s achievements, is developing Trinity FM station into a professional and tightly run operation producing a high standard of programme.  Brendan also conceived the idea of the student magazine Analogue, covering independent music of all genres. The quality of the magazine has recently been recognised in the recent National Student Media Awards where it won the People’s Choice Award and was nominated for the categories of Best Magazine, Best Layout & Design, and Best Website.  Brendan also held the position of Secretary of CSC this year liaising with and advising students who wish to establish new societies.

From his first days in College, Robert Kearns has been a committed participant in College life.  He has been involved in the Students’ Union , Trinity Volunteers Opportunities Forum (TVOF), University Record and the DU Comedy.  In the pursuit of his activities, he has worked hard to encourage students to be more involved in College life helping to create an atmosphere of inclusion.  Robert was instrumental in organizing this year’s highly successful TVOF symposium on third level volunteerism focusing on practical planning and featuring students, government representatives and members of the business community and positive impact on students’ contribution to the wider community. Robert was also News Editor of this year’s University Record and played a large part in its makeover. Robert worked unfailingly this year to resurrect the DU Comedy society which has run some of the College’s most successful events this year hosting some of Ireland ‘s biggest comedians.

Robbie Woods is an enthusiastic participant and contributor to the College community.  As Captain of the men’s Squash Club he is constantly looking for ways to promote squash in College and he was instrumental in creating and running the first ever Trinity Cup this year. Robbie has also represented Trinity in tennis, hockey, and football.  Since his first year, Robbie has been an integral part of Business and Economics Society, holding a number of Executive positions. In his capacity as Secretary this year, he organised a careers event and helped run the BESS Ball for 900 guests. Furthermore Robbie took part in events to raise money for the medical overseas volunteer electives charity (MOVE) this year as well as participating in the annual Med day.  He also performed in the play “Turbulence” which ran during Hilary term.