The significant Leaving Certificate achievements of four former County Louth school students have been acknowledged and celebrated by Maynooth University at a recent awards ceremony.
The first year students, who began their studies at Maynooth University in September 2025, are among almost 50 Maynooth University Entrance Scholars, each having achieved 575 points or more in their Leaving Certificate examination.
Former Ardee Community School student Jack McCourt, who is studying for a BSc in Computer Science and Software Engineering degree MH601, former Sacred Heart Secondary School, Drogheda student Saoirse McDermott, who is undertaking a BA Bachelor of Arts degree MH101, former Coláiste Chú Chulainn, Dundalk student Michelle Nowak, who is studying for a BA Psychology degree MH106, and former Our Lady’s College, Greenhills, Drogheda student Ogheneruno Okoro, who is enrolled in the BBS Business and Accounting degree MH407, enjoyed the celebration of their Leaving Certificate examination success.
The €1,000 Entrance Scholarship is automatically awarded to incoming first year students, via the CAO, who have obtained 575 points or more in their Leaving Certificate.
The ceremony, which took place in early February, marked the expansion of an established annual tradition designed to support and celebrate Entrance Scholars to now include Sports Scholars. The wider Scholars Awards Night event brought together Entrance Scholars, Sports Scholars, academic leaders and sport development officers from across the University, students, families, educators, sports leaders and supporters to honour the achievements of this year’s scholarship recipients.
Professor Ronan Farrell, Vice President Academic and Registrar, said: “I am proud to be hosting this newly expanded Scholars Awards Night. These scholarships represent more than financial support — they reflect our belief in the potential of young people and our commitment to helping them pursue their goals.”
Professor Ronan Farrell presented each scholar with a bespoke piece of crystal in recognition of their achievement. School representatives were presented with a plaque. Family members and guests were treated to an evening of music and refreshments.
The inaugural Scholarship Awards Night underscores Maynooth University’s commitment to invest in the next generation and create opportunities that empower students to thrive in their academic and sporting endeavours.
In total, almost one hundred scholarships were awarded on the night:
In total, almost one hundred scholarships were awarded on the night:
- Entrance Scholars (the Entrance Scholarship is automatically awarded to incoming first year students, via the CAO, who have obtained 575 points or more in the Leaving Certificate).
- Music Entrance Scholar (the Music Entrance Scholarship is awarded to the top scoring applicant to the MH103 Bachelor of Music degree, based on their online video audition).
- W.A Barrett Engineering Scholars (the W.A. Barrett Scholarship in Engineering at Maynooth University was established in 2023 through the generosity of Earthridge International and the Barrett family to commemorate the late William Anthony (Tony) Barrett. The scholarship provides €3,000 to eligible first year students taking a level 8 course that is accredited by Engineers Ireland at Maynooth University).
- Sports Scholars from GAA (Camogie, Hurling, Ladies Football, Men’s Football), Golf, Rugby, Snooker and Soccer.
For more information about the range of undergraduate scholarships at Maynooth University, visit mu.ie/scholarships.
Maynooth University Open Days take place on Saturday April 25th and June 27th 2026 from 10am to 2pm.
More information is available at www.mu.ie/opendays.
