Tributes paid as “true Lasallian principal” retires

Mrs O’Leary with Deputy Principal, Ms Connolly

The end of the school year at De La Salle College Dundalk, saw staff and students bid a fond farewell to retiring principal, Patricia O’Leary.

A special ceremony was held on Friday May 14th to honour Mrs O’Leary with many tributes being paid to an educator who has been described as a “true Lasallian Principal”.

Mrs O’Leary first came to the school in the 1980s as a Teacher of Geography and Gaeilge and later in the SEN department. She then served as Deputy Principal for two years before taking on the role of principal which she has held for the past ten years.

In Covid times, the speeches and presentations were live streamed to all of the classes, with Ms Connolly, Deputy Principal, highlighting Mrs O'Leary's commitment, values and Lasallian Ethos. Eamonn O'Boyle, Chairperson of the Board of Management, and Mary Richardson, Parents Council, spoke about  Mrs O’Leary's dedication to staff, students and parents over the years.

"Faoi Gheasa" provided the music and Mathew Geraghty , Geordan Richardson and Tom Cunniffe made presentations on behalf of the Senior and Junior students.

All wished Mrs O’Leary a very happy and healthy retirement.