SETU brewing student receives annual Walsh Whiskey bursary
Dr David Phelan, Head of Department of Applied Science at SETU; Cian Murphy (SETU winning student); John Griffin, CEO of Walsh Whiskey; Dr John L Byrne, Programme Director for Brewing and Distilling at SETU. Pic: SETU.ie
An undergraduate student on SETU’s brewing and distilling programme has received the ninth annual Walsh Whiskey bursary award, valued at €1,000.
For almost a decade, SETU has partnered with Walsh Whiskey, producers of 'Writers’ Tears' and 'The Irishman' whiskeys, who award a bursary in acknowledgement of the achievement of a first-year student on the University’s Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Brewing and Distilling programme.
Cian Murphy, the latest recipient of the bursary, is a student on the four-year course which - the first of its kind in Ireland.
A spokesperson for SETU said the support of a local distillery that is thriving globally, is massively impactful for the programme and its students.
John Griffin, CEO of Walsh Whiskey, presented the bursary to Cian an on-campus event and in doing so highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and skills development within the sector.
“At Walsh Whiskey, we believe strongly in supporting the future of Ireland’s distilling industry by investing in education and emerging talent," he said, before adding that the brewing and distilling programme at SETU plays a vital role in developing the scientific knowledge and practical skills that the sector depends on.
"Cian’s achievement reflects both dedication and potential, and we are proud to recognise his hard work through this bursary," said Mr Griffin.
The SETU spokesperson said Cian’s achievement reflected both academic dedication and a growing skillset in the science and craft of brewing and distilling.
"His academic performance demonstrated excellent results across his first year of study, alongside a strong engagement with the scientific and practical elements of the programme," said the spokesperson.
Cian expressed pride in receiving the bursary in recognition of his hard work an he expressed his gratitude to Walsh Whiskey for their continued support.
The partnership between Walsh Whiskey and SETU, which stretches back nine years, has become an important motivator for early-stage learners at the university while at the same time supporting industry-focused curriculum development and student engagement.
Commenting on the collaboration, Dr John L. Byrne, Programme Director for Brewing and Distilling at SETU, said: "The partnership between SETU and Walsh Whiskey has been pivotal in keeping our degree in brewing and distilling industry-focused and relevant. Since the programme's inception in 2017, Walsh Whiskey has been a committed supporter, playing a key role in its development and continuing to invest in the future of our students."
Introduced in 2017, the programme was developed by SETU in collaboration with industry experts, representative organisations, national bodies, and Government stakeholders. It is one of just four degrees worldwide to hold professional recognition from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling (IBD).
The course combines science, engineering, business, and marketing with innovation and entrepreneurship, preparing graduates for careers in the brewing and distilling sector.
L-R: Dr David Phelan, Head of Department of Applied Science at SETU; Cian Murphy (SETU winning student); John Griffin, CEO of Walsh Whiskey; Dr John L Byrne, Programme Director for Brewing and Distilling at SETU.
