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A MEMORABLE night unfolded at Killarney Community College last night as the school rewarded its brightest and best.

Acting principal Stella Loughnane concluded the night with a sincere speech when she referenced the famous quote from Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel and tonight we want you to feel both valued and celebrated as you move forward in life.”

Teachers, students, parents and distinguished guests assembled for the annual awards ceremony to honour and recognise students in the college.

Mutaz Almusawi won the prestigious Student of the Year award. During his six years in the school, he has endeared himself to everyone through his commitment, pleasant manner, works ethos and involvement with all areas of school life.

Past pupil and broadcaster John Herlihy was the special guest presenter on the night and delivered a heartfelt speech to the gathering. John Herlihy is manager of Radio Kerry Training where he oversees the National Diploma in Radio Production delivered between the National Digital Skills Centre in Tralee and Radio Kerry Training. In addition to his radio work and training work, John lectures at the Institute of Technology Tralee where he works across the Hotel, Culinary and Tourism, Business and Creative Media Departments.

Students received awards for areas such as contribution to the life the school, academic achievement, sports, arts and design and technology.

The Principal’s Award went to Adam Hurley for his overall contribution to the school. Nelu O’Doherty received the Senior Sports Awards as recognition of his outstanding contribution to sport in the college and in his respective clubs. Orlaith Murphy won an award in the Junior Sports category in recognition of her sporting prowess.

Sarah O’Riordan Clifford and Saoirse Freisinger won the Arts Awards, while Sarah Finnan received the Senior Music Award. The Design and Technology award was presented to Broghan Edmonds. All students were credited for their amazing talents in these areas.

The award for contribution to the life of the school was presented to Brian Kelliher. Ross Brennan and Rory O’Carroll were presented with the award for Living the Ethos. Ross and Rory have been constantly involved in promoting the school ethos of “Respect, Responsibility and Inclusion”.

Awards were presented to last year’s Best Junior and Leaving Certificate Exam. Students Natalia Aleksejenko received the award for best Leaving Certificate, Grace O'Sullivan for best Junior Certificate and Filip Bruzgiewicsz Leaving Certificate Applied.

The night was a great success with entertainment being provided by various musical acts, under the direction of music teacher Joanna Hughes.
 

 
Above: Stella Loughnane, acting principal, presents Mutaz Almusawi with the Student of the Year award.