Ms McKeever started her career at Mount Lourdes Grammar School as a PE teacher in 1982, before progressing through the ranks to vice-principal and eventually becoming principal 14 years ago. 

Throughout the 37 years, she has touched the lives of thousands of girls, and says she is truly sad to be leaving the school.

“I am really sad to be leaving but at every stage I have loved my job. With every job there has been challenges but I had a very rewarding and fulfilled career, and I say that with honesty. 

“The big change at the school is the Sisters of Mercy who founded the school are no longer here since 1998. 

“Most of my memories are very good. I have been blessed with the staff that I worked with and the Board of Governors have always been supportive. 

“I have worked with staff that are highly committed to the girls and have a great spirit which made my life easier,” she said.

Ms McKeever, who is originally from Letterkenny, recalls that Mount Lourdes was her first teaching job and she says she ‘came to Enniskillen, fell in love with the place, and forged a really lovely career’.

“There are many occasions that stand out for me including the centenary of the school, visits from Mary McAleese and President Michael D Higgins and I also met the Queen. 

“The pupils of this school have always been exceptional – they are good humoured, cooperative and just wonderful young people. 

“What I can say about is the relationships that is formed between the staff and the students is really the hallmark of what we do.”

Ms McKeever is now winding down in her role as principal, and her successor, Sinead Cullen is preparing to step into her shoes. 

“Sinead is very committed to the school, the girls and education so things will go from strength to strength under her leadership.”

So what does Ms McKeever have planned for her retirement? “Absolutely no plans”, she says.

“I am just going to take life as it comes but I intend to have more time to myself and do the things that I haven’t had time to do. I am sad to be leaving, but I have wonderful memories to take with me.”