LIMERICK woman Teresa Ryan has been appointed as national president of St Vincent de Paul (SVP).
Teresa has served with SVP for over 12 years as local and area president, Mid West regional president and most recently as a member of the National Management Council and trustee.
As SVP Mid West regional president, she played a leading role in developing the Limerick City drop-in centre in collaboration with volunteers and staff.
Commenting on her appointment, Ms Ryan said “it’s a privilege to serve as national president, and I want to pay tribute to my predecessor, Rose McGowan, whose steady leadership and commitment to the people we support set a strong foundation”.
“I will begin by listening, to the people we support, to our members and volunteers, and to partners in every community, so that every voice is heard with respect. I will also advance SVP’s strategic plan, championing education and personal development as vital tools in breaking the cycle of poverty, so that together we make a practical, lasting difference for households across Ireland,” Teresa said.
Born in Belfast and raised in Ballybay, County Monaghan, Teresa trained in hotel catering before qualifying as a nurse.
She spent 35 years with the Brothers of Charity Services in Limerick, ultimately serving as head of quality in client services, focusing on risk management, advocacy, and inclusive policy development.
Throughout her life, Teresa has volunteered extensively. She was involved in establishing a social club for young adults with disabilities, served in a rehabilitation centre for injured war victims, and volunteered in an orphanage early in her career.
Saint Vincent de Paul provide a wide range of services for vulnerable people through local offices, shops, resource centres, housing, day care and holiday schemes.
SVP Limerick are located in Ozanam House on Hartstonge Street in Limerick City and can be contacted on 061 317 327 or [email protected].
