Meet the Sullivan Connect committee

What inspired you to get involved with Sullivan Connect?

Growing up my father was heavily involved in lots of different organisations so I guess the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree in this instance. I always had the intention of giving a little back and ultimately I got collared by one of the committee members at a school pick up and as they say the rest is history! A great decision, so if like me, you want to give a bit back then please get in touch.

How has Sullivan Upper School shaped your life and career?

It’s hard to put into words how much Sullivan has helped shape me. Firstly, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to the late, great, John Young. Thankfully, he was willing to take a risk on a rather aimless ‘Inst Boy’ and allowed me into Sullivan to repeat some exams and then to go on and do my A levels. We were so lucky to be surrounded by such amazing teachers who carefully guided us in the right direction (The gentle hand foremost). Mentors/legends like Stephen McMaster, Joe McKinney, Davy Armstrong & Bill Halliday made a huge impact on me so I’m very grateful for their incredible influence. The friendships that were generated at school have stood the test of time and continue to remain as solid to this day. And finally, I was immensely fortunate to be sat beside a certain girl in French class who all these years later continues to put up with me!

What’s your fondest memory from your time at Sullivan?

The school formal; the sharp wit of Mr. McMaster in A-level French; the common room banter; the 1993 Schools cup quarterfinal v Dalriada (how did we lose it); the rugby tours; the Cultra Inn on a Friday night! Priceless memories…

What is your role within Sullivan Connect, and what does it involve?

In January 2026, I was elected Chairperson, which means I have the very difficult task of following in Rachel’s footsteps. As you may have seen we have lots planned for 2026 which we will be disclosing in the next few months. I therefore want to build on the great initiatives that we have started like Lifetime membership, Coordinated reunions, the careers fair and also add in some other aspects that we hope the alumni will buy into. My role is to coordinate those aspects in conjunction with the amazing committee we have on board and provide an association that everyone can be proud of. Fingers crossed!

What would you say to alumni who are considering supporting or joining Sullivan Connect?

Please take that first step and support us by signing up for Lifetime membership. We want to grow and make the association one that everyone can feel very proud of. We really hope that our current communication channels keep you updated and connected. In order to sustain this then we would need your financial support. Please subscribe if you can!

How can former students give back to the school, even in small ways?

Lifetime membership would be a great starting point. Please keep your details up to date and accurate. Support or volunteer at our events and let us know how we can improve. We are a group of volunteers who share the same passion so please share our vision to grow the association

Become a Lifetime Member today!

A message to alumni:

• Take that first step.
• Sign up for Lifetime Membership.
• Stay connected, support events, and help grow an association we can all be proud of.

We are delighted to have Nolan leading Sullivan Connect into an exciting next chapter!