Book of Essays Celebrating Former Chair of Education Launched

Posted on: 03 February 2011

A book of essays entitled Essays in Tribute of J Valentine Rice (1935-2006), former Chair of Education at Trinity College Dublin (1966-2005), was recently launched by Fellow Emeritus Professor Barbara Wright in Trinity College.  Edited by Dr Aidan Seery of the School of Education the essays, composed by former colleagues and students, reflect his broad interests within the field of education and acknowledge his wide-reaching influence in Irish education.

Dr John Valentine Rice was appointed in 1966 to the role of Professor of Education and held the Chair of Education (1905) for thirty-nine years before he suddenly passed away just one year following his retirement.  During his tenure he was responsible for introducing the first professional research masters degree in education in Ireland.  He also oversaw the introduction of the Bachelor in Education degree, in association with the Church of Ireland College of Education, Coláiste Mhuire Marino and Froebel College, that provided the first inter-denominational education for student teachers.

Throughout his career at Trinity College Dr Rice also held the roles of Research Professor of Education (2001-2005), and Fellow of the College (1970-2001).  His influence as teacher, mentor, advocate and friend is reflected throughout this book of essays.