December University of Galway celebrates Tarpey Scholarship and Bursary recipients

University of Galway has announced the 2023 Tarpey Scholarship awardees – Nursing student Shauna Martyn and Medicine student Adeline Mei Hui Kon.

The scholarships are testament to the enduring legacy of the late Hazel and Tanya Tarpey – two remarkable sisters who left an indelible mark on healthcare workers while they were treated for a rare genetic autoimmune disease. 

The Tarpey family established the scholarship in memory of the sisters to foster the growth and development of future healthcare professionals. It is awarded to outstanding students committed to enhancing their professional skills through additional studies, beyond the regular curriculum.

The Tarpey family have extended their support for students to include a Tarpey Bursary, established for the first time in 2022. The award is given privately each year to two students in the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences who may not have been able to continue their studies due to being at a financial disadvantage. 

Tim and Mary Tarpey, the parents of the Hazel and Tanya, said: “It is a pleasure to give back to the medical community who did so much. We look forward to the event every year to meet the new recipients and catch-up with old friends who diligently cared for the girls over the years. We will never forget them and feel this is the perfect way to celebrate their memory and build a lasting legacy through both the scholarship and bursary.”

Professor Sean Dinneen, of University of Galway’s School of Medicine and Consultant Endocrinologist at Saolta University Healthcare Group, cared for both sisters during their illness. He said: “The Tarpey Scholarship and Bursary stand as a shining example of philanthropy, embodying the Tarpey family’s commitment to keeping alive the memory of Hazel and Tanya. By supporting the education and training of the next generation of caring and compassionate healthcare professionals, the Tarpey family’s contribution plays a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare.”

Dr Paul Dodd, Vice-President for Engagement at University of Galway, said: “Our University community would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the Tarpey family for their unwavering support and dedication to the formation of compassionate healthcare professionals. The Tarpey Scholarship and Bursary contributes significantly to the development of our students, ensuring that they have the resources and support needed to excel in their chosen fields.”

Adeline Mei Hui Kon, a Medicine student at University of Galway who received one of this year’s Tarpey Scholarships, said: “This generous support inspires me to continue pursuing my research aspirations and enhancing my clinical skills. I am sincerely grateful for the belief placed in me and I am committed to making a positive impact in the field of healthcare in honour of the Tarpey’s family enduring love and memory.”

Shauna Martyn, a Nursing student at University of Galway and also a recipient of the 2023 Tarpey Scholarship, said: “I’m delighted to be selected for this award, and to become part of the tradition of honouring the memory of the Tarpey sisters. I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to the Tarpey family for their generosity. It’s a great privilege to accept this award and to commemorate the exceptional Tarpey sisters.”

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