Aberystwyth University in Wales has awarded a posthumous BSc degree in Information and Library Studies to Caitríona Lucas.
Caitríona died during a search and rescue mission with the coastguard service after the lifeboat capsized in rough seas at Kilkee last September.
Caitríona, 41, from Ballyvaughan, began her BSc degree in Information and Library Studies in June 2015.
She studied by distance learning whilst also bringing up a family, working as a librarian for Clare County Council, and volunteering for the Search and Rescue Dog Association.
She also completed over 700 hours every year as a volunteer with the Doolin Coast Guard in Ireland.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Professor Judy Broady-Preston, director of the Institute of Professional Development, said, “Caitríona Rós Lucas died on September 12, 2016 whilst on active service as a volunteer with the Irish coast Guard during a search for a missing person. Caitriona joined the service in 2006 and served with her husband, Bernard who joins us today, [Thursday] together with her son, Ben.
“An excellent and popular student, Caitriona was due to complete her degree in 2017. Aber students and staff remember her lively personality, energy, enthusiasm and professional commitment. Today, we celebrate her life and achievements.”
A native of Ennis, Colin McGann has been editor of The Clare Champion since August 2020. Former editor of The Clare People, he is a journalism and communications graduate of Dublin Institute of Technology.