Why Suppoprt Your Union / What Your Union Does

Blackrock College Union — Supporting Past Pupils Throughout Life

The Blackrock College Union, founded in 1898, is the official alumni body representing past students of Blackrock College. It exists to maintain a lifelong connection between alumni, their classmates, the school and the broader Blackrock community, promoting fellowship, support, and service among Rock men around the world.

A Global Network with Local Roots

With a past pupil base of over 14,000 living alumni spread across more than 65 countries, the Union provides a vital network for connecting, engaging and supporting former students and their families. It fosters friendships and opportunities that extend long after graduation.

Reunions and Events — Keeping Connections Strong

Central to the Union’s work is the organisation of events that bring alumni together at all stages of life:

• Class reunions marking 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and beyond, offering occasions to reconnect, share memories and renew bonds.
• Annual Dinner, a flagship social event celebrating camaraderie across generations.
• Annual Retreat, a spiritual and reflective gathering for past pupils.
• London Business Lunch and other international reunions that engage alumni abroad.
• Community-wide social occasions such as Rock Around the World, encouraging participation and fundraising from Rock men globally.

These events not only celebrate shared history but also provide invaluable networking, support and friendship across decades.

Support Through Life — The Blue & White Support Group

At the heart of the Union’s support network is the Blue and White Support Group, a confidential, alumni-to-alumni care initiative that offers moral, practical and emotional support to past pupils facing difficulty. Operated discreetly by trained volunteers who themselves are former Rock students, Blue and White can help with life challenges, offering a sympathetic ear and access to bespoke guidance when needed.

Mission Fund — Making a Global Impact

The Union’s Mission Fund was established to support the missionary work of the Spiritans, especially in some of the world’s poorest regions. Donations are channelled into projects, particularly educational initiatives in Africa and other developing areas — that provide real, tangible assistance to communities in need.

St Vincent de Paul — Local Outreach and Opportunity Support

Through the Blackrock College Conference of St Vincent de Paul, the Union helps disadvantaged individuals in local communities, particularly in areas such as West Tallaght. This includes targeted education support for third-level students from under-privileged backgrounds, helping them pursue higher education and build brighter futures.

Lifelong Engagement and Advocacy

Beyond events and charity work, the Union also plays a role in connecting alumni and future past pupils, participating in career talks, mentorship, and other initiatives that support current students and recent graduates. Its branches in Great Britain, North America, Australia / New Zealand and beyond host regular events, ensuring a global reach and enduring engagement.

A Community That Stays Connected

Membership of the Union is free and open to all past pupils, encouraging everyone to keep their contact details up to date so they can stay informed. Through a vibrant calendar of events, a robust support network and a commitment to service and solidarity, the Blackrock College Union embodies the enduring spirit of friendship and care that defines the Rock community.