To mark our 75th Anniversary, we are shining a light on some NCI alumni to showcase the amazing talent the College has produced throughout the years.
Louise Quinn, Department of Social Protection
Alumni Spotlight: Louise Quinn
Management & Employee Relations | Employment Policy | Operations Management (2001 - 2025)
Department of Social Protection
About Louise
Louise Quinn has studied at National College of Ireland on three separate occasions, beginning in 2001 with a Diploma in Management and Employee Relations, followed by further accredited programmes in Employment Policy in 2017 and Operations Management in 2025 through NCI's collaboration with the Department of Social Protection.
Across each stage of her journey, Louise found NCI to be a supportive and accessible place to learn, with approachable lecturers and a strong sense of connection in the classroom. One moment in particular that has stayed with her is advice from Programme Director, Nicola Horgan, which continues to shape both her personal and professional life:
"Know your own story. Those words resonated with me because I think when we know who we are, we are able to help people in a complex way."
For Louise, this idea became a powerful mindset which continues to influence how she supports others in her work and everyday life.
Building Confidence Through Learning
Each education programme Louise completed at NCI played a role in shaping her career. Her first qualification supported her progression within the workplace, while later studies helped her develop a deeper understanding of the Department of Social Protection and its focus on supporting people.
Through continued learning, Louise built confidence in her own abilities - challenging self-doubt, recognising her strengths, and ultimately progressing in her career through successful promotions. She credits her studies with not only strengthening her professional skills, but with changing how she sees herself and what she believes she is capable of achieving.
Her experience also strengthened her passion for working with people, particularly those navigating challenging circumstances which is a reflection of both her personal journey and her professional values.
Louise's story is a powerful reminder that growth often begins with courage and that by understanding our own journey, we can build confidence, embrace new opportunities, and continue to learn at every stage of life.
#75YearsofNCI