Row Person of the year 2024, Gerry Keenan, paid a visit to his old Alma Mater on Friday January 26th. After a welcome from Principal, Kate Byrne, with coffee and scones prepared by some of the students, Gerry addressed a large gathering of pupils from Sixth, Fifth and Transition years. Drawing on his own experiences, after he sat the “Leaving” and left the Row in 1971, Gerry clearly struck a chord with his young audience. Having no fixed thoughts of what career he wished to pursue, he sat for the Junior Executive exam and was awarded a place in the Civil Service. Gerry was only a few weeks in the job when he realized that he did not like it and left to work for the Simon Community as a volunteer. Obviously, a new career had to be carved out, so Gerry went to UCD and obtained an Arts degree. After that he studied at the London School of Economics. His career path next took him to UCC as a lecturer and roles at the Economic and Social Research Institute as well as the Central Bank. He joined Irish Life Investment Managers in 1984 working in various roles before becoming Chief Executive in 2005.
Gerry said that the spirit of perseverance which he got whilst trying to get a place on the Row football team stood him in good stead in his work years and he urged his audience not to give up no matter how bad things may appear. He said that he never got beyond first sub for the team but he always turned up and never gave up hope. He said that it was alright to fail but always “get back on the horse” and you will get there in the end. Also, he urged the pupils not to “bottle up” problems but talk to parents, teachers, mentors and friends. Help is always available. He said that he was particularly impressed with the spirit of friendship which exists between Westland Row past pupils. he said that he met many during his working life including Brian Duncan and Brendan Hayes who worked with him in Irish Life and made him welcome there. He urged the students to stay in touch after graduation.
Gerry and a number of his 1971 classmates went on a tour of the school after his address and were very impressed with what they saw.
Below are a few photographs taken by John Murray on the day –
PPU Treasurer (and Blogger) Jim Conway with his grandson Euan Ryan and Gemma Kelleher, sixth year students who were among the attendance at Gerry’s address.
ABOVE – Gerry receiving his PPU tie from President Dan Ferrari
BELOW – PPU members Eddie Hanlon and Dr. Kieran Jack McGinley (Class of 71) and Neil Murray (Class of 64) enjoy refreshments provided by the students before Gerry’s address.
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