University library to be named in honour of student who was murdered

Updated / Monday, 12 Jan 2026 07:36

Western Correspondent

A new library at the University of Galway is to be named in honour of a student who was murdered soon after she completed her studies there in 2006.

The Dr Karen Guinee Library is being constructed at a site on campus.

The medical student was murdered by her boyfriend Patrick Hogan Jr in June 2006. She was 23 years of age.

Hogan was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to her murder.

The naming of the library in memory of Dr Guinee results from a “significant philanthropic gift” to the university from the Michael Guinee Charitable Foundation. The charity was established by Dr Guinee’s uncle.

Originally from Douglas, Co Cork, Karen Guinee studied in Galway between 2000 and 2006.

The university said the medical graduate was remembered as a gifted and compassionate alumna who completed her education and training as a doctor with distinction.

A scholarship for medical students in her memory is also being established.

In a statement, the Guinee family said Karen’s death had left a void in the lives of everyone who knew her and had brought “unspeakable trauma”.

They said Dr Guinee was bright, kind, loving and caring. The family added that the naming of the library in her honour would serve as a living tribute and give a deeper meaning to her absence.

They said they drew comfort in knowing that someone so special would never be forgotten.

University of Galway President Professor David Burn described the library as a legacy which would be a place of study but also a place of resilience and hope.

He said the institution was acknowledging Dr Guinee’s compassion and her commitment to helping others, through her chosen career.

The new building is located in the centre of the university campus, overlooking the River Corrib.

The 10,000sq.m structure will have over 2,000 study spaces and will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology, to improve and enhance the student experience.

Construction is expected to be completed next year.