UCC student to represent Cork at Rose of Tralee International Festival 2026

28 Jul 2026

• Lexi Linnane, UCC Early Years and Childhood Studies student, to represent Cork.
• Lexi is using her platform to raise awareness of stroke and support the work of Cork Stroke Support.

University College Cork student Lexi Linnane has been selected as the Cork Rose and will represent the county at this year's Rose of Tralee International Festival.

Lexi, who is entering her second year of the BA in Early Years and Childhood Studies at UCC, hopes to use the platform to raise awareness of stroke, particularly among younger people, while supporting the work of Cork Stroke Support.

"As Cork Rose, my main goal is to raise awareness of stroke, particularly among younger people. Throughout my Rose journey, I hope to use this platform to encourage conversations around stroke awareness while also highlighting the incredible work of Cork Stroke Support,” Lexi said.

Ahead of travelling to Tralee, Lexi's friends and supporters will come together for a special send-off celebration on Sunday, 2 August in Blackrock, raising vital funds for Cork Stroke Support and its invaluable work supporting stroke survivors and their families across Cork.

Looking ahead to the new academic year, Lexi says she is excited to return to campus and continue her studies in Early Years and Childhood Studies: "I'm really looking forward to returning to UCC for my second year of Early Years and Childhood Studies. I've absolutely loved my first year, and it's a course that has only strengthened my passion for working with children. I'm excited to continue learning, meeting new people, and making the most of everything the year ahead has to offer."

Lexi says her connection to UCC extends well beyond her course: “UCC has always held a very special place in my heart, not only because of my own studies, but because of my family's long-standing connection to the University."

"My dad, Dave Linnane, has worked in the General Services Department at UCC for many years, and my grandad Pat dedicated 39 years of service to the University as a Duty Officer. Since his retirement, he has continued to play an important role as a mace bearer at conferring ceremonies, representing one of UCC's most treasured traditions. As a family, we are incredibly proud of our connection to the University."

UCC President Professor John O’Halloran MRIA said: "On behalf of everyone at UCC, I warmly congratulate Lexi on being selected as the Cork Rose for 2026. Lexi embodies so much of what we value at UCC: a commitment to learning, a desire to make a positive difference, and a willingness to use her voice to support others. Her decision to champion stroke awareness and the work of Cork Stroke Support demonstrates real compassion, leadership and a strong sense of community. We know Lexi will be a wonderful ambassador for Cork and for UCC, and we wish her every success."