South East Technological University (SETU) hosted a special morning of reflection and celebration to recognise students’ achievements in completing their first year of the Certificate in Personal Development.
The event recognised not only the dedication and hard work of the 12 students, but also the support of their families, friends, and the collaborative contributions of staff and tutors across departments.
Held at SETU’s Cork Road Campus on Wednesday 15 May, the event acknowledged the support of the Higher Education Authority (HEA).
Recognition of courage
Welcoming invited guests, family, and friends, Dr Catherine Kelly Mason, Course Co-ordinator, reflected on the significance of the occasion: “Today is more than just a gathering—it is a recognition of courage, commitment, and connection. We are here to honour the first-year journey of students with intellectual disabilities in higher education—individuals who have not only entered new academic spaces, but who have challenged expectations, inspired growth, and enriched our academic community here in SETU in ways that words can hardly capture".
A moment to reflect
A highlight of the morning was a visual exhibition created by the students using Photovoice, a reflective method combining photography and personal narratives to tell their stories.
“The accompanying reflections are the students’ own words—honest, sometimes humorous, sometimes deeply moving—and they offer a window into the unique perspectives and personal growth of each contributor,” explained Dr Kelly Mason.
First cohort
The first-year cohort comprised of Amy Roche, Aoife Murphy, Ben Kervick, George Sosic, Joseph O’Donnell, Hannah O’Mahony, Larry Ovie, Philip Crosbie, Margaret O’Keeffe, Valerie Power, Kevin Murphy, and Pauline O’Meara.
Each student took to the podium to share personal reflections on their experiences throughout the year, highlighting moments of growth, new-found independence, overcoming challenges, and the friendships that shaped their journey into higher education.
Encouragement
Hannah O’Mahony shared her reasons for applying to this course, “I wanted to attend University and do the personal development course. I first heard about this course from my keyworker when she explained all about the course."
"I was nervous to do it and with a bit of help and encouragement, I got an interview and then get accepted into this course" Hannah continued.
From shy to proud
Pauline O’Meara was initially nervous when she started SETU. “I didn’t know what to expect, however when I arrived at college on my first day, I felt proud to become a student in SETU. Although I was shy, I was happy to be attending the course in Personal Development”.
Speaking about the benefits of the course George Sosic said, “The course has helped me think differently about the future. It made me realise there is always help out there for people who need or want to get a job if they don’t know where to look. This course has made me feel more positive about life and showed me that I’m not alone.”
Support
Staff members, including lecturers, administrators, academic support teams, peer facilitators, and the WorkAbility Programme Co-ordinator, also reflected on the teaching approaches, supports, and inclusive practices implemented throughout the year.
Dr Kelly Mason paid special tribute to Dr Sara Kennedy, whose vision and determination made the programme a reality.
“By recognising a gap in access to higher education for people with intellectual disabilities, and by taking the steps to secure funding, Dr Sara Kennedy has opened doors—not just for the students here today, but for the future of inclusive education,” she said.
Inclusion
A special acknowledgement was given to peer facilitators Shannon O’Farrell Molloy and Hugh O’Callaghan, both graduates of similar programmes, who played a key role in supporting the students as equals, allies, and trusted companions.
“They’ve played an important role in building a campus culture where inclusion is lived, not just spoken about,” added Dr Kelly Mason.
The event concluded as students and staff came together to perform, using a blend of music, sign language (including Lámh), movement, and other expressive gestures.
