Awarding of Dominican Medals 2024

The Froebel Department, in Maynooth Univeristy,  is named after Friedrich Froebel (1782-1852) a German educator and creator of the concept of Kindergarten. In this Kindergarten children were to be nourished like plants in a garden. Froebel taught the connection of human life and life in nature and central to it all was the importance of free play.

On the 8th November 2024 two students of the Froebel college in Maynooth were awarded Dominican Medals. One graduate was awarded for her display of the philosophy of Froebel which is seen in the ability to get the best from students by nurturing the child’s imagination, creativity and critical faculties in an environment that respects the dignity and individuality of each child. A second Dominican medal was awarded to another Froebel graduate for her contribution to Religious education.

The President, Michael Shortall began the evening, and the guest speaker for the evening was Baroness Nuala O’Loan. Fr John-Paul Sheridan (Dean of Theology, acting) then introduced the Dominican medal awards and Sr. Edel Murphy presented them to the two students on behalf of the Cabra Dominican Sisters. Srs Helen Mary Harmey and Eileen O’Connell were also present at the awards ceremony.

It was a simple and reflective ceremony. Our Dominican connection with Froebel/ Maynooth was spoken of by Fr. John-Paul Sheridan on the night and appreciation for our presence at the presentation of these two Dominican medals to two Froebel Graduates was very much expressed. Congratulations to the two young teachers may they inspire the young pupils to reach their potential.

Photos Cian Roche, SPPU: