Once Dublin Oak, always Dublin Oak.

Alumni celebrating 25 Years.

 A very special group of Alumni made their way back to where it all began — Dublin Oak Academy. The Class of 2000–2001, Section B2, returned to Ireland this past April to celebrate their 25-year reunion, reconnecting not only with the place and memories but also with the spirit of formation that shaped their lives.

Their visit was filled with special moments. From a warm welcome to walking through familiar hallways, the group enjoyed revisiting the place they once called home. Touring the Academy and sharing memories made it a meaningful return to Dublin Oak.

The group also joined the current generation of students for Palm Sunday celebrations and Lenten reflections, including a special Mass celebrated by Fr. Kevin O’Byrne, LC from Dublin Oak and Br. César Hérnandez, L.C., a former member of their generation who traveled with the Alumni and played a key role in making the event possible — a beautiful expression of unity through time.

A highlight of the visit was a special ceremony organized by the current students and staff, where each Alumni received a symbolic Dublin Oak tie, presented with honor and gratitude — a reminder that while the years may pass, the OAK seal remains a part of who they are.

The presence of new generations made the celebration even more special. The current students joined in the commemorations, and one of the Alumni’s daughters — now a student at Woodlands Academy in Ireland — attended the ceremony with her family. A powerful symbol of how the OAK legacy lives on through generations.

The group received several heartfelt messages from former staff members who had been part of their journey 25 years ago, including one from Br. Óscar Sánchez, L.C., from the former Discipline staff members, and a moving note from Mr. Richard O’Rourke, their former academic staff member:

“In my experience, every step we take in life has an importance for our future, and the more learning that we have in that step, the greater its importance for us.

So, in that sense, the fact that you took a year out of your life with your family, from your school, and from your social surroundings in Mexico — to spend a year in Ireland, that has to have huge significance for your future and for your present.

So it is my wish that that year is positively influencing everything that you do since then, and is making you better people — better able to help your neighbors, better able to help your country.

So, from me, the best for the present and for the future.”

From past to present, from students to parents — the spirit of Dublin Oak continues to inspire, form, and unite. This reunion was more than a milestone; it was a celebration of shared history, lifelong friendships, and the ongoing journey of growing by formation.

And as always, “the Castle” remains open — a home for every Dublin Oak generation, past, present, and future.

Once Dublin Oak, always Dublin Oak.