Welcome from Maurice Tunney

Dear Past Pupils of Blackrock College,

It is a great honour to address you as President of the Past Pupils Union for 2025/2026. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and for the support of Karl O’Neill in nominating me for this role. I would also like to acknowledge the leadership of my predecessor Mark Rogan, whose commitment, strength and humanity, particularly through a very difficult personal year, set a standard I can only hope to continue. I look forward to drawing on his advice and experience throughout the year ahead. I would also like to thank Johnny Dunne for stepping into the role of Vice President. I feel very fortunate to have such capable and experienced people alongside me. In truth, this Union has always been defined by the generosity of those who give their time quietly and consistently, and I am proud to now be part of that tradition.

My own connection to Blackrock spans my ten years in Willow Park and the College, from 1980 to 1990. Like many of you, I left with lifelong friendships, strong values, and a sense of belonging that has never left me. I did not leave with sporting trophies or academic accolades, but I did leave with something far more important: the belief that I could do my best, and that effort and character matter as much as outcome.I was fortunate, too, to be drawn into the work of the Union over a decade ago, and what began as a small involvement quickly became something I have genuinely loved being part of. I have seen first-hand the extraordinary commitment of past presidents and committee members, people who quietly give enormous time and energy to keep this Union strong, relevant, and connected.

My time in recent years has also shown me what this Union truly is: a community that serves. From career events and reunions, to support for the Mission Fund, the Blue and White Support Group, and Restore Together, there is an extraordinary depth of work being done, often without recognition, but always with purpose. I want to sincerely thank everyone involved in those efforts.

We also remember with gratitude those who have shaped this community over many years and are no longer with us. Their legacy remains part of the fabric of Blackrock and the Union we are custodians of today.

Looking ahead, my focus is simple. This Union must continue to connect people and serve its members in a way that is relevant in a rapidly changing world. At a time when technology can so easily replace real human connection, our role in maintaining and strengthening those bonds is more important than ever.

A key priority for me this year will continue to be Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention. Initiatives such as The Elephant in the Room have begun to open up vital conversations, and it is essential that we continue to build on that work so that stigma is replaced by openness, support, and understanding. Alongside this, our ongoing commitment to Restore Together will remain central. There is still much work to do, and it must be done together, as one Blackrock community, across school, alumni, and wider support networks.

Strengthening our ties with Blackrock College and Willow Park will also remain a priority. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Principal Yvonne Markey and the leadership team. We are at a significant moment in the history of the school, and it is essential that all parts of the community work together in its best long-term interests. Financial sustainability is another important focus. The Union must be placed on a secure footing so that we can continue to support both our member activities and our charitable commitments. Progress has been made in recent times, but there is more to do, and I look forward to working with the committee to build on that foundation.

Finally, I want to place real emphasis on our Junior Committee and younger past pupils. Their engagement will shape the future of this Union. Whether through networking, career support, mentoring or events, we must ensure the Union remains relevant to them and responsive to their needs in a changing world.

Above all, my guiding principle for the year ahead is very straightforward: be kind, and stay connected. If we can continue to show up for one another, in whatever way we can, we will strengthen this community in a meaningful and lasting way.

I would like to sincerely thank my family, friends, and all those who have supported me in taking on this role. Their encouragement means more than I can properly express.

I look forward to meeting many of you over the coming year at events, reunions, and gatherings across the Union. I encourage all past pupils to stay involved, stay connected, and continue to contribute to the strength of this remarkable community.

Fides et Robur,

Maurice Tunney (Class of 1990)