Ashling Murphy remembered with Mary Immaculate College's 2024 scholarship in honour of her

A talented musician from Clare, Rachel Mahony, has been awarded the Ashling Murphy Memorial Entrance Scholarship for 2024 by Mary Immaculate College (MIC) and the Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO).

Founded in 2023, the scholarship was established in memory of Ashling Murphy who was tragically killed just months after graduating from MIC as a primary school teacher in 2022. 

In honour of Ashling, the scholarship recognises her love for traditional Irish music and teaching by awarding students from MIC who have shown exceptional talents as traditional Irish music players while studying for their degree in teaching.

The scholarship is open to first year Bachelor of Education students at Ashling's former college MIC. The bursary of €4,000 is awarded jointly by MIC and INTO.

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Commenting on this year's scholarship winner, President of MIC, Professor Dermot Nestor said: "Once again we are delighted to honour the memory of MIC graduate Ashling Murphy, whose life was tragically cut short in 2022 following her murder.

"Ashling, as we all know, was a hugely talented traditional musician in addition to being a beloved teacher to all those fortunate enough to have had her as one during her short career.

"It is therefore fitting that we honour her memory by awarding a scholarship, in partnership with the INTO, to a fellow talented musician who is embarking on their B. Ed (primary teaching) programme here with us at MIC. Rachel is such a musician and a worthy recipient and I wish her all the very best with her studies over the next four years."

Carmel Browne, President of the INTO, also commented: "As INTO President this year, it is a special privilege to be closely involved with the award. The scholarship recognises Ashling’s love of teaching and traditional Irish music, along with her dedication to celebrating and nurturing new talent.

"By awarding this scholarship, we not only keep Ashling’s memory alive, but we also inspire future educators, who share her passion for music and community."

Hailing from Ennis, County Clare, Rachel is a highly accomplished and award-winning traditional Irish musician and aspiring primary school teacher. 

Rachel is heavily involved with a number of local and national Irish music groups. She also tutors young musicians in her own community and she is actively involved as a tutor in Ireland's annual concertina event, Consairtín.

The scholarship was granted to Rachel at the annual MIC College Awards ceremony where she performed live. 

Commenting on her award, Rachel said: "I am delighted to receive the scholarship founded in Ashling’s memory. My passion for Irish traditional music has been a driving force in my life.

"I regularly attend festivals, fleadhs, and other events across the country, where I’ve had the opportunity to connect with fellow musicians of all ages. These friendships, formed through a shared love of music, are as significant to me as the music itself."