Greenmount Association Past Presidents’ Dinner

Date published: 7 September 2026

The event, an initiative of current President Lisa Burrows, provided a wonderful opportunity for former presidents to come together, renew friendships, share memories and enjoy an evening of fellowship.

Held at the Dunsilly Hotel, Antrim, the evening began with a reception where guests enjoyed the chance to meet old friends, make new connections and reminisce about their time at Greenmount. Before dinner, the assembled presidents gathered for a group photograph, capturing a remarkable collection of Greenmount history in one room. It was particularly pleasing to have 24 past presidents represented from as far back as the 1980s.

Greenmount Association Public Relations Officer (PRO) Patrick Fee welcomed everyone and thanked them for attending. He then invited President Lisa Burrows to address the gathering. In her speech, Lisa paid tribute to the dedication and leadership of past presidents, acknowledging their efforts in building and maintaining the Association over many decades and ensuring it continues to remain relevant and valuable to Greenmount students and graduates.

Lisa also reflected on the Association's activities throughout the year, highlighting several successful events and initiatives, including the well-attended 40-year reunion for the Class of 1986, participation in Open Farm Weekend, the relaunch of the Greenmount Association Student Bursary, and the forthcoming autumn Farm Walk, scheduled to take place on 16 September.

Following an excellent meal, William Hanna, President of the Association from 1992-93, gave a fascinating overview of the history of the Greenmount Association. William reflected on many of the organisation's notable achievements and developments over the years and recalled the privilege of officially opening the Greenmount Association Room in the Manor House, an occasion he described as one of the highlights of his involvement with the Association.

Bringing the formal proceedings to a close, Treasurer, Robert Edwards thanked everyone for their attendance and for contributing to such a successful evening. With a mixture of gratitude, reflection and good humour, he acknowledged the importance of preserving the strong connections that exist amongst Greenmount graduates and encouraged members to remain actively involved in the Association's future activities.

However, the end of the speeches certainly did not signal the end of the evening. Conversations continued long into the night as guests shared stories, memories and plenty of laughter, reflecting on their experiences both during and after their time at Greenmount.

A recurring theme throughout the evening was the lasting impact of the friendships formed at Greenmount. While many of those relationships were forged through a shared passion for agriculture and horticulture, they have endured across generations and continue to unite former students many years later.

The Past Presidents Dinner proved to be a fitting celebration of the people who have led the Association over the years and highlighted the enduring strength of the Greenmount community. The Greenmount Association looks forward to building on this success and continuing to bring together past, present and future generations of Greenmount students.