The Edmund Rice Society invited the Iona community to come out and witness the unveiling ceremony of the Icon of Edmund Rice. The event took place on Monday April 16 as members of the student body, the Edmund Rice Society and Dr. Nyre filled the crowd in the Vitanza Commons.

The idea for bringing the icon to Iona was thought of by senior member of the Edmund Rice Society Merissa Doyle. The icon, created by Irish artist Desmond Kyne, can be found in the Campus Ministries office as well as the chapel, but Doyle wanted to place it somewhere central.

“It began when I studied abroad in Ireland,” she said. “Our art professor taught us about the icon and was shocked that none of the 22 Iona students had seen or heard of it before.”

There is great symbolism within the borders of the icon. There are images designed to represent Edmund Rice, God, the Holy Spirit and more. All of the images add to the intended portrayal of strength and vision.

Doyle was intrigued by the icon and passionate about displaying it. She knew that bringing the icon to a central part of campus would not only liven the atmosphere of the campus but would also educate passing students on Edmund Rice.

As her ideas grew, Doyle realized she wanted to go a step further than just localizing the tribute.

Weeks prior to the unveiling, the dedicated senior set up shop in the LaPenta lobby and gave the student population a chance to play a part in the creation of the icon. Each student who participated was given a piece of the icon and a paintbrush.

The icon now on display in the Vitanza Commons was painted by dozens of participating members of the Iona Community and was then assembled into one, further adding to the “community” atmosphere this tribute inspires.

“This project has been Merissa’s baby for a while now,” said junior and Edmund Rice Vice President Andrew Hastings. “The canvas is beautiful, and it really speaks for the Iona family image, being that the student body painted it…the program should win program of the year in my opinion.”

The passion and dedication seen in Doyle’s hard work has inspired many members of the Iona community. The icon itself has inspired many as well.

“We hope this icon will serve as a reminder to continue working hard and giving back to the community,” said junior Sarah Collins, a general E-Board member of the Edmund Rice Society.

At the unveiling, Doyle gave a heartfelt speech to the community thanking them for their strong support.

“Over a hundred people contributed their time and talent to making this happen and bringing this to you today,” she said. “I want to thank them all for bringing my vision to reality.”

Just as much support was seen at the unveiling in Vitanza. Close to 40 members of the Edmund Rice Society along with members of the Residential Life staff and the President’s Cabinet filled the seats in front of Doyle as Dr. Nyre assisted her in premiering the finished icon.

The two then hung the work of art on the wall of the dining hall.

The mark Doyle is leaving behind at Iona when she graduates stands out as a legacy of her time here with the Edmund Rice Society. Her contribution is undoubtedly one that will serve as a point of reflection and inspiration for both current and future members of the Iona community.