DkIT’s newest SU Team officially takes office

This year, Gerry O’Brien steps into the role of SU President, having previously served as Vice President for Student Engagement. Tobi Bewaji, who formerly held the role of VP for Welfare and Equality, now takes over as Vice President for Student Engagement. Rosheen Hornby joins the team as the new Vice President for Welfare and Equality.

In addition to the three full-time members of the SU team, six part-time officers will be elected in October to represent DkIT’s student body, filling roles such as Academic Officer, International Officer, and Mature Student Officer.

Newly elected DkIT SU President, Gerry O’Brien is a Sport, Exercise and Enterprise student from Dundalk who came back to DkIT as a mature student following a career in construction. Gerry’s motivation to run for the Students Union came from support he had previously received from the college and the SU, and his desire to give that back to other students. Gerry decided to run for President to continue the work he started last year and continue the positive impact he has had on the student body. A key achievement during his previous term was the launch of a new student social space on campus, offering students a vibrant and welcoming place to connect.

Speaking on his first day as SU President, Gerry said,

“For me this year and taking on the role of SU President is all about representation and engaging the entire student body. I want to have an SU for all, that reaches everyone, not just certain cohorts of students. Working closely with Tobi and Rosheen, I’m excited to take on this role and to see the impact we can have on the DkIT community. “

Returning to the SU in her new role as Vice President for Student Engagement, Tobi Bewaji is looking forward to continuing the impact she has had on the college campus this year and bringing her previous experience and knowledge to the new role.

A graduate of the BA (Hons) in Audio and Music Production, Tobi has spent her first year in the role championing diversity and inclusion, advocating for students' financial well-being, supporting mental and sexual health, and continuously enhancing the events and campaigns offered by the Students Union. A notable achievement in her time in the role so far was her organisation of the first “Black History Month” on the DkIT campus, which celebrated and raised awareness of black history through a series of fantastic events.

Reflecting on her SU experience to date and her hopes for the future, Tobi said:

“I had an incredible experience in my previous role in welfare and equality. The highlights for me were advocating for students, leading impactful campaigns, and sharing some unforgettable moments during events and nights out. This year, I’m excited to build on that by boosting engagement across campus, keeping students at the centre of everything we do, and fostering a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere—even during the most stressful academic periods.”

Rosheen Hornby is the newest addition to the SU team. The Cavan native is currently taking a year out from her Early Childhood Studies Degree to focus on her new role as Vice President of Welfare and Equality. Her priorities for the year include advocating for men’s mental health, encouraging wider participation in student life — especially among apprentices and part-time students — and ensuring all students feel welcomed and supported throughout their time at DkIT.

Rosheen said:

“I joined the Students’ Union because I’m passionate about making sure all students feel supported, heard, and included. I wanted to be in a role where I could actively advocate for positive change, help break down barriers, and promote wellbeing across campus. Taking on the Vice President for Welfare and Equity role felt like the perfect opportunity to make a real difference for students during their time in college.”

For the entire team, focus on student engagement is key for the year ahead. Nationally and locally, engagement has declined due to the rise in commuting students, increased part-time work, and a shift toward online over in-person interaction. In response, the team is committed to expanding daytime events, fostering a stronger on-campus community, and giving students more opportunities to connect with one another.