Fantastic new book published charting 50 years of students council in Offaly school
Story of Tullamore's SHS' Student Council would make an ideal Christmas present
The Student Council of Sacred Heart School have recently published a book celebrating its fifty years of history within the school.
The book holds many beautiful and intriguing accounts of past pupils, presidents and coordinators experiences of being part of SHS.'s Student Council.
Established in 1973 by past principal, Sr. Dolores Walsh, the Student Council in the SHS, has for fifty years set up fundraisers, school discos and the likes for their students.
The first inauguration of the Student Council in 1973 saw SHS pupil, Theresa Casey elected first president of the body.
In the book, she states that being president of the Student Council “gave me confidence to go forward and work with other voluntary groups for the betterment of others and our community”.
Throughout the book you'll find the words of past and present members of the Student Council, however there is also a treasure trove of information concerning subjects that students study throughout their school years as well as information about extra-curricular activities in the school such as debating, school basketball, athletics, musicals and dramas, Junk Kouture and much more.
Other features of the book include a list of every president of the Student Council in the SHS.
It is quite empowering to see the girls organise and create such wonderful projects and opportunities for not only themselves but their peers to get involved in local and national charities that help to make a difference in the world.
The Student Council is a great way to build your confidence and empathy for others.
A quote from the current Student Council Coordinator, Livinia Reynolds on page 83, states perfectly the importance of women's voices in society: “As I continue in this role, I am humbled by the legacy of the remarkable women who have guided and inspired me, reminding me of the significance of our collective voices.”.
Overall I think it's fair to say that the hard work and dedication applied to this book has accomplished a stunning representation of life in the Sacred Heart School of Tullamore.
Well done to book coordinator, Jacinta Gallagher Carroll, and editor, Vivienne Clarke, and all involved in this project
The book totals 98 pages and a wide range of interviews, contributions, reminiscences and photographs down the past half century.
Commenting on the journey involved in compiling the publication, co-ordinator, Jacinta Gallagher Carroll said: “We started the process last March and what was supposed to be a small project to mark the anniversary, turned out to be huge, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Vivienne Clarke, as editor, was a huge support and Andrew Moore, was the most patient man in the world as designer of the book with Print Plus.”
The launch in the Bridge House Hotel was attended by over 200 people and featured a whole range of speakers.
“It was just a perfect night capturing the essence of the SHS; its ethos, its traditions and its diversity,” said Ms Gallagher Carroll.
“Celebrating 50 Years of the Sacred Heart School Student Council” is available from the school and in local outlets.