13 October 2026
North West Credit Union Celebrates 2026 Educational Bursary Award Winners
On 9th October 2026, North West Credit Union was delighted to welcome the recipients of our 2026 Educational Bursary Awards to our Wine Street Branch for a special presentation ceremony and cheque presentation.
The event celebrated seven exceptional students from across our common bond area who were selected from a record number of applications received this year. The outstanding standard of submissions made the selection process more competitive than ever, highlighting the ambition, resilience and determination of students throughout our communities.
Supporting education has always been an important part of what we do at North West Credit Union. Through initiatives such as our Educational Bursary Awards, we are proud to help members pursue their academic goals and ease some of the financial pressures associated with third-level education.
Meet Our 2026 Educational Bursary Award Recipients
Ella Gallagher
Science and Maths Education | Dublin City University
Alanna Dorey
English and Psychology | ATU Sligo
Anthonia Chea
Pharmaceutical Science and Drug Development | ATU Sligo
Leighanne O'Malley
MSc Human Nutrition & Dietetics | Limerick University
Jemma Brehony
Bachelor of Education with Home Economics and Gaeilge | St. Angela's College
Abhainn Savage
Performing Arts | ATU Sligo
Rebecca Smith
Clinical Measurement Physiology (BSc) | ATU Sligo
Recognising Every Applicant
While we are proud to celebrate our seven bursary recipients, we would also like to acknowledge and thank every student who applied.
This year saw the highest number of applications ever received for the programme, and the quality of submissions was truly exceptional. Applicants shared inspiring stories of achievement, perseverance and ambition, making the final decisions extremely difficult for our judging committee.
The record interest shown in the bursary programme reflects the incredible talent and potential that exists throughout the communities we serve.
Investing in Education, Investing in Communities
At North West Credit Union, we believe that education creates opportunities, strengthens communities and helps individuals reach their full potential. Supporting our members through every stage of life is at the heart of what we do, and our Educational Bursary Awards are just one of the many ways we invest back into our communities each year.
The bursary presentation ceremony was attended by Board Chairperson Catherine O'Reilly, CEO Orla Lee, Deputy CEO Carmel Mullaney and CFO Elaine McBride, who joined family members and colleagues in congratulating the students on their achievements.
We would like to extend our warmest congratulations to all of our 2026 Educational Bursary Award recipients. We look forward to following their future successes and wish them every happiness and achievement as they continue their educational journeys.
Applications for the North West Credit Union 2027 Educational Bursary Awards will open in January 2027.
