Mayo school celebrates historic 50th anniversary reunion
The event provided a wonderful opportunity for classmates to renew old bonds, with many catching up for the very first time since graduating in 1976.
The Sancta Maria College Leaving Certificate class of 1971-1976 recently gathered for a historic and deeply sentimental 50th-anniversary reunion, marking five decades of lifelong friendships and shared history.
The main celebrations took place at the college campus in Louisburgh. The returning alumni were extended an exceptionally warm welcome by the current Principal, Dr Áine Moran, who invited the past pupils to explore and enjoy the newly built, state-of-the-art updates to the Sancta Maria College campus.
The commemorative ceremony was formally opened with blessings, music, and remarks from Fr Nelson Joseph and Rev Alex Morahan.
Following the opening, current teacher Judy O’Malley and her daughter, Jade, generously guided the attendees on an extensive tour of the transformed school grounds, sparking fond memories of days gone by alongside admiration for the modern campus.
The class extended its deepest appreciation to retired teachers John Lyons, Jimmy Egan, and Vincent Farrell, who graciously attended to catch up with their former students. The nostalgic celebrations continued late into the night at McNamara’s Bar and Restaurant in Louisburgh.
The occasion provided a wonderful opportunity for classmates to renew old bonds, with many catching up for the very first time since graduating in 1976.
To leave a lasting legacy of this milestone, the Sancta Maria College Reunion Committee returned to the school grounds and joined by Vice Principal Michael Davitt, the committee planted a commemorative tree on the front grounds of the college. This will stand as a living monument to the enduring spirit of the Class of 1971-1976.