In the years 2005, 2006, and 2007, the Laois Association funded a Student Bursary to provide financial support for a Leaving Certificate student from a County Laois second level school while undertaking an undergraduate Diploma or Degree course, over a maximum of a three-year period. All second-level schools in the county were invited to nominate a student to represent the school in the selection process. The selection criteria used, recognised outstanding merit through contributions to school and community life. An annual sum of €1,500 – a total of €4,500 over 3 years – was awarded to the winning student in each of the next three academic years. The first student was selected in academic year 2005, the 2nd recipient student in 2006, the 3rd in 2007. The overall contribution by the Association in supporting 3 students during the total period was €13,500, the single biggest financial commitment ever undertaken by the Association. We are very proud and pleased to see how all three selected students made maximum use of the funding and their studies, and have gone on to exceptional success in their respective careers.
2005: Karen Daly, Castletown (Ballyfin College)
2006: Laura Kearns, Stradbally (Scoil Chriost Rí, Portlaoise)
2007: Amanda Nolan, Stradbally (Scoil Chriost Rí, Portlaoise)
