In conversation with alumna and Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin (BA 1994, HDip Ed 1995), Prof Colin Graham deftly explored the Minister’s student days at Maynooth, performing solo at the Carol Service, winning the grand final of the legendary Maynooth Song Contest, her career as a teacher, her grá for the Irish language and for music, and her journey into the Irish political landscape.

Also participating in the event were Sharon Carty, an Irish mezzo-soprano and Maynooth Campus Associate Artist; Dr Anne O’Brien, Head of the MU Department of Media Studies; and Lucina Russell, Arts Officer for Kildare County Council. The digital event interspersed conversation about the future of the arts with multi-disciplinary performances in a variety of musical genres, creative writing, and film by talented Maynooth students in iconic locations across the University. From the Russell Library to Callan Hall, Arts and Minds brought the Maynooth campus to alumni.

Alumni in 22 countries around the world tuned in to this year’s event - formerly known as the Alumni Summer Soirée - chatted in real-time as the event was broadcast online. From Carlow to Boston, it was great to see so many alumni enjoying a Maynooth cultural experience - 2021 style.