Each year, students, their family members, and staff are invited to nominate someone from our school community for the Spirit Award. This award was created in memory of our past colleague, Ms Barbara Keena. 

Barbara was a beloved member of staff in Loreto College Mullingar. Those fortunate to know Barbara remember her fondly for the support that she gave everyone in our community, students and staff alike.  From a listening ear, to a kind word, her extraordinary generosity or a helping hand was always there when needed. Moreover, this kindness towards and charity for others often took place quietly in the background without any fuss.

Barbara inspired so many students and colleagues to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others. She always led by example, giving of her time freely and unselfishly, always going above and beyond without being asked to do so. Barbara also possessed great intuition, and this quality meant that she rarely missed an opportunity to offer help or assistance to those in need of a calm word and a helping hand. 

The Spirit Award is designed to honour Barbara and the outstanding contribution that she made to our community, allowing her spirit and compassion to live forever in our school. 

This year, we are delighted to announce that the recipient of the 2026 Spirit Award is Ms Deirdre O'Reilly, teacher of Spanish and English. Many thanks are extended to all who took the time to submit their nominations, and congratulations are extended to Ms O'Reilly.