Brian Óg and Naoise join the DkIT Student Services Team
Life at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) goes far beyond lectures and exams—it’s about discovering new passions, building lifelong friendships, and finding the supports you need to thrive.
The Student Services Centre at DkIT provides a range of personal support to students attending the college and aims to give both advice and practical supports in a wide variety of circumstances.
From Disability Services and Counselling, to Careers, Sports & Societies, and Pastoral Care, students at DkIT have access to a wealth of supports designed to make their time at college the best it can be.
As the new academic year is due to commence, DkIT is delighted to introduce the two newest additions to the Student Services Centre- Brian Óg Corr, Sports & Societies Officer, and Naoise Weldon, Pastoral Care Co-ordinator.
Knockbridge native and DkIT graduate Brian Óg Corr brings over a decade of experience working with Leinster GAA to his new role. A past pupil of the CBS in Dundalk, Brian Óg studied Community Sports Leadership at DkIT, where he was no stranger to the college’s vibrant sports scene.
As Sports & Societies Officer, he will support more than 60 active clubs and societies ranging from fencing and athletics to photography and circus arts. His role is all about helping students get the most out of these communities, whether they’re preparing for a competition or simply looking to try something new.
“I will be overseeing all the sports and societies within the college and assisting students in whatever capacity I can to help them grow,” Brian Óg explained. “If students commit to developing a club, the sky is the limit on how far they can go.”
Having been heavily involved in the DkIT GAA Club during his own time as a student, Brian Óg understands the positive effect sports and societies can have.
“Getting involved in GAA during college had a massive impact on me as it gave me a love of coaching and drive to help others develop,” Brian Óg reflected. “Clubs and societies provide a chance to build lifelong friendships.”
Dundalk native Naoise is taking on the role of Pastoral Care Co-ordinator. A graduate of Community and Youth Work at Maynooth University, Naoise has worked as a care assistant, a programme facilitator for people with disabilities, and most recently as a family support practitioner with Tusla. She was particularly drawn to the role for the opportunity to work in collaboration with the other DkIT supports to create the space for students to succeed and reach their potential.
Her role at DkIT focuses on supporting the wellbeing of students across social, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. “Pastoral care is about wellbeing,” she said.
“For me, it’s important to build trust through an open-door approach and recognise the privilege of being entrusted with someone’s vulnerability.”
Naoise is particularly passionate about creating safe and inclusive spaces for all students at DkIT. She is committed to ensuring positive representation for the LGBTQI+ community and to working with students to remove obstacles to education.
“A big passion of mine is working to eliminate barriers to education with the knowledge that we all come from different front doors and what may be easy for one may require a lot of bravery and resilience for another,” she said.
In their new roles, both Naoise and Brian Óg are focused on helping students to get the most out of their college experiences.
“Students should embrace the full 3rd level experience,” Brian Óg said. “Clubs and societies provide a chance to meet and engage with people from different backgrounds and help give you so many valuable skills for your future.”
Naoise wants students to know that her door will always be open to anyone that needs it:
“I want anyone in the DkIT community to feel like the pastoral care support is there for them no matter their background, beliefs or needs.” Her best piece of advice to students - “You don’t have to have it all figured out at once, enjoy being in the process of who you are becoming.’’
Whether you want to join a society, need a listening ear, or are looking for guidance on your next step, the Student Services Centre is accessible to all students. Make the most of your time at DkIT—explore, connect, and don’t be afraid to ask for support along the way. Visit: Student Services | DkIT to find out more.