Mayo student honoured with national social care award

A student from Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo has been recognised at national level for her outstanding contribution to the field of social care.

Rhona Kavanagh, a fourth-year Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Applied Social Care student at Atlantic Technological University (ATU), was awarded the prestigious Social Care Ireland Student Award at the Social Care Ireland conference gala dinner.

The award celebrates exceptional commitment, innovation and professional excellence among students entering the social care sector, with attendees from across the country gathering to mark achievements in practice, education and research.

Rhona was nominated by Teresa Fahy, Programme Chair and Lecturer in Applied Social Care at ATU, who described her as “an exemplar of what this profession is all about.”

She praised Rhona’s academic ability and dedication, highlighting her talent for translating complex theory into practical tools that can support individuals, families and professionals.

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“Rhona’s achievement stands out in her exceptional ability to translate cutting-edge theory into accessible, practical tools that genuinely enhance service delivery,” she said.

Particular recognition was given to Rhona’s innovative children’s resource, My Brain, which supports emotional literacy and co-regulation in a compassionate and developmentally appropriate way.

The award also reflects the wider achievements of social care students at ATU, many of whom demonstrate resilience, leadership and a strong commitment to social justice while overcoming personal challenges.

The Applied Social Care programme at ATU’s Mayo campus in Castlebar prepares students for careers across a range of services, including community work, disability services, youth work and the justice sector.

Rhona’s success highlights both the strength of the programme and the growing impact of Mayo students in the social care profession.

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