Athlone guidance counsellor honoured with retirement presentation

Athlone woman Mary Egan was recently honoured by the Institute of Guidance Counsellors (IGC), Midlands Branch, on her retirement from the organisation.

Mary previously worked in the Careers Department at Athlone Institute of Technology, now TUS Midlands, before moving to St Joseph's College, Summerhill, now Coláiste Chiaráin.

The Barrymore resident retired from full-time guidance in Coláiste Chiaráin in 2018 but continues to help students at the school with counselling issues that arise.

A presentation was made to mark Mary's retirement from the ICG at its Midlands Branch dinner and awards ceremony in the Annebrook House Hotel, Mullingar, on December 2.

Theresa Burke, Chairperson of the IGC Midlands Branch, paid tribute to Mary for her expertise and her friendship through the years.

"Mary has been instrumental in keeping the IGC Midlands Branch running over the years, acting as Chairperson, Secretary, and National Executive Member," she said.

"Mary is a lady who always offers great insights and a very caring approach to her work. I have learned so much from Mary through our supervision group, and you will be an incredible loss to us, Mary.

"As a branch, we wish you well in your retirement, and hope it brings plenty of opportunity to engage in your love of reading, travelling, and spending time with family."

The event in Mullingar was attended by guidance counsellors from Longford, Westmeath, Galway, Offaly, and Roscommon.

In addition to the presentation to Mary Egan, an 'Outstanding Contribution to Guidance' gold medal was also awarded to Betty McLaughlin, former IGC President and Guidance Counsellor at CBS Mullingar.