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Queen’s Business School have unveiled a Memory Bench as a heartfelt tribute dedicated to a former student and BDO NI Prize-winner from Armagh on what would have been his 30th birthday.
More than a seat; the dedicated bench dedicated to Micéal Murphy represents a tangible connection between past and future.
Micéal had been a former recipient of the BDO NI Award which had been renamed the ‘BDO NI Award in Memory of Micéal Murphy’ in 2016 following his passing in 2015.
Crafted with care and situated within the new Queen’s Business School campus at Riddel Hall, it is hoped it will provide a space for reflection and respite, inviting visitors to pause, remember and draw inspiration from his legacy that it commemorates.
“This Memory Bench is a way to honour the values and contributions of Micéal. It is not just about remembrance but also about carrying forward his spirit in ways that will continue to inspire and benefit students for generations to come,” said Professor Ciaran Connolly from Queen’s Business School.
Laura Jackson, Honorary Professor at Queens Business School and Partner and Head of Audit at BDO NI, a firm that has since renamed its award and mentoring programme in memory of Micéal said: “Over the last decade, this prestigious award programme renamed in his memory has empowered many outstanding Queen’s Business School students through mentorship, work placements and professional skill development, setting them on a path to bright futures.
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Pictured at the bench in the Queens Student Hub gardens in Rideel Hall is Micéal’s family including his mother Fidelma, nephew, Dáithí, brother Eoghan and father Kevin
“Micéal was an amazing person, we are honoured to be a part of this journey with his family.”
Attendees at the unveiling ceremony had the opportunity to hear words of reflection, enjoy stories about Micéal from his family and participate in a moment of dedication.
Fidelma Murphy, Micéal’s mother said: “We would like to express our deep gratitude and thanks to BDO and Queen’s Business School for honouring our son in the most amazing way.
“Micéal’s bench is in the most special place, its here he thrived, excelled and grew with the help, nurturing and deep care from everyone around him.
“We truly hope that as you sit and take a moment, that you breathe a little deeper, see and hear the beauty that surrounds you and maybe even smile.
“Micéal loved with all his heart and lived his best life with a smile.”