NWRC pays tribute to Gerard Finnegan

It was with a deep sense of sadness that the staff, management and students of North West Regional College learned of the passing of our friend and colleague Gerard Finnegan.

Gerard Finnegan was a member of the college’s Board of Governors since 2011 and was appointed Chair in 2014.

A Chartered Accountant by profession, Gerard, a graduate of Queen’s University Belfast, forged a career in the Economic and Business sector working hard for skills, and building the economy in the North West.

Previous roles in Invest NI, PricewaterHouseCoopers and ILEX gave him expertise in areas such Strategic Planning, Business Mentoring, Economic and Regeneration Strategy and Corporate Governance.

Leo Murphy, Chief Executive and Principal of NWRC said: “The response to the news of the death of our friend Gerard has been overwhelming. Those who worked with Gerard will remember him as a dedicated and kind man who wanted the best for everyone.

“We were privileged at NWRC to have the support of Gerard, a man whose expertise and forward thinking played a key role in the college in recent years, particularly in terms of skills development, the expansion of the curriculum and refurbishment of the college estate.

“Communication was a skill that Gerard had in abundance. He was a leader and mentor, we will always be appreciative of how much of his valuable time Gerard gave to NWRC, particularly at our many events inspiring students on their various career paths.

“He delivered a long commitment to NWRC, this city and region, and made a difference wherever he went.

“Gerard was loved and respected across our college and his loss has been felt deeply by the entire NWRC community. We will remember him for his work ethic, his passion for education and his integrity. He is a friend to NWRC who will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with Gerard’s wife, Máire and children Dearvla, Émer and Niall as they come together to deal with the sad loss of a husband and father.”