Rockwellian of The Year 2025
The Rockwellian of the Year Award was presented to Patrick Curran (Class 1975) by President Mary O’Connell and Immediate Past President Ross Thompson at the Union Centenary Dinner on 3rd May 2025
The Rockwellian of the Year Award is given to an individual who exemplifies the very best of professional success, unwavering commitment to Rockwell College and the Union, and has made a lasting contribution to the College. This year’s recipient, Patrick Curran, embodies all three pillars and more.
Born in Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia), Patrick spent his youth in Africa before attending Rockwell College as a boarder. On leaving school he attended UCD where he studied Archaeology and Classics. On graduating from UCD, he began a career in commercial real estate in Dublin and qualified as a Chartered Surveyor. He is a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (FRICS) and was CEO BNP Paribas Real Estate Ireland until he stepped down in 2017 but remained involved as Chairman at request of BNP Paribas Real Estate HQ until he retired in early 2021. In the business world, he is regarded as a skilled commercial property consultant — a sharp negotiator and trusted professional.
Patrick’s sporting achievements are equally impressive. At Rockwell he played on SCT for 3 years, captained Munster Schoolsand was an Irish Schoolboy International. He went on to earn his “Colours” with UCD RFC and played for Wanderers FC Senior XV until he was forced to retire at 25 following a serious back injury.
He is a proud member of Rockwell’s Class 1975. His ability to rally his classmates is unmatched—the turnout of over 40 of Class 1975 to the Centenary Annual Dinner is an example of how effectively he mobilizes support and fosters community spirit.
Involved for over 45 years with the Union, Patrick was President in 2003 and has played a pivotal role in bringing many members of the Rockwell community into active involvement, including the Union’s governing body.
Patrick’s support for Rockwell College has never wavered. He has been instrumental in major fundraising efforts, including the iconic Sports Pavilion opened in 2018 and, more recently, the World Rugby Accredited All-Weather Rugby Facility, “ Willie Duggan Park “, completed in February 2025.
For his leadership, loyalty, and legacy, we are proud to honour Patrick Curran as the Rockwellian of the Year 2025