Former Gaelcholáiste principal honoured with papal medal
Bishop Denis Nulty, Easpag Chill Dara and Leithghlinne with an t-Athhar Conn Ó Maoldomhnaigh presenting the medal to Caitlín Mhic Cárthaigh, retired principal of Gaelscoil Eoghan Ui Thuairisc
THE former principal of Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach has been awarded a prestigious papal medal in recognition of her exceptional contribution to education.
Cáitlín Mhic Cárthaigh, who led the school from its founding in 1990 until 2011, was conferred with the Benemerenti Medal at a special ceremony held at the Carlow school.
Ms Mhic Cárthaigh was joined by family members, former colleagues and the wider community for a Mass celebrated by Fr Conn Ó Maoldhomhnaigh, bishop Denis Nulty, Msgr McEvoy, Msgr Byrne and Fr Ger Ahern.
The school described the Benemerenti Medal as “a rare and distinguished honour,” adding that Ms Mhic Cárthaigh’s “tireless dedication to the advancement of education and her unwavering commitment to nurturing generations of learners have left an indelible mark on our community.” “We are delighted to celebrate this well-deserved recognition,” the school said.
Fr Conn Ó Maoldhomhnaigh, president of Carlow College, St Patrick’s, said Ms Mhic Cárthaigh was honoured “for her outstanding contribution to education at secondary level.” “Cáitlín fostered the intellectual, spiritual and human formation of all the students that came under her care as a teacher and principal,” he added.
Bishop Denis Nulty, who presented the award, said on social media that he was “delighted” to present the medal “mar aitheantas ar a seirbhís den scoth san oideachas thar na blianta” (in recognition of her outstanding service in education over the years).
The last papal medal awarded to an Irish educator was in 2023 to Goretti Newell, former principal of Hollypark BNS, Dublin.
