Alumni Spotlight: Andrew Farrell

In our latest Alumni Spotlight, we catch up with Musical Theatre graduate Andrew Farrell to reflect on his time at ACD and the remarkable career he has built since graduating.

Faculty Spotlight: Tanya Farrelly

Get to know award-winning author and Creative Writing lecturer Tanya Farrelly in this month’s Faculty Spotlight. In our Q&A, she shares insights on storytelling, teaching, and what inspires her work.

A Lifetime in Hospitality: Mark Nolan’s Keynote Speech at ACD’s 2025 Graduation

As we reflect on the joy and achievement of American College Dublin’s 2025 graduation ceremony, we are honored to share the inspiring commencement address delivered by Mark Nolan, our distinguished platform speaker and honoree. With a career spanning over 35 years at the helm of Ireland’s most iconic five-star properties, including his decades-long leadership as Managing Director and General Manager of Dromoland Castle, Mark has shaped the landscape of Irish hospitality with vision, dedication, and unmatched expertise. His journey—from early training at the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology and formative roles at Ashford Castle and Dunfey Hotels in New York, to guiding the evolution of The Dromoland Collection and founding Hallmark Management and Hallmark Hospitality—reflects a life committed to excellence, innovation, and service. We are delighted to present his full speech, a memorable tribute to perseverance, purpose, and the transformative power of education.

From Favela to the World Stage: ACD Student Gabriel Morse Returns to His Roots to Inspire the Next Generation

ACD Creative Writing student Gabriel Morse knows firsthand how transformative access to the arts and education can be. Raised in one of Brazil’s largest slums, his life took a remarkable turn thanks to a local performing arts programme. From singing in a children’s choir to performing with Andrea Bocelli and speaking to thousands of students across Brazil, Gabriel’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and global perspective. Now based in Dublin and writing his first book, he’s using his voice—on stage and on the page—to inspire others to dream bigger.

News – Orientation 2024 A Thrilling Introduction to ACD

American College Fair

A mix of informational sessions and fun-filled activities made Orientation 2024 a resounding success among the newest members of the ACD community. The day commenced at the Alex Hotel, where attendees met their orientation groups and student leaders.