By OSV News
DUBLIN (OSV News) — On March 17, as millions mark St. Patrick’s Day, a Catholic school in Thurles, County Tipperary, Ireland is celebrating one of its most famous alumni. Oscar-winning actress Jessie Buckley, a former student of the Ursuline convent school, has drawn praise for a pro-life, pro-family message in her acceptance speech at the Academy Awards March 15. Buckley won best actress for her role in “Hamnet,” portraying Agnes Shakespeare. Speaking on Ireland’s Mother’s Day, the actress dedicated her award to mothers and her infant daughter, celebrating both family life and professional calling. She also paid tribute to her husband, describing him as an “incredible dad.” The Ursuline school community said her success reflects values of dedication, creativity, and faith nurtured since its founding in 1787, when Catholic education faced persecution. Teachers recall Buckley’s early talent, calling her journey from school stage to global recognition an inspiration for young women today. Music teacher Joan Butler told a local radio station that she had seen this award coming for Jessie from her Ursuline days. “I remember, the whole room just stopped, mouths open, watching this rehearsal. And I remember turning to some of the students and going ‘watch her’ — she’s gonna win an Oscar one day,” Butler said.
