By Lucas Spicer.
Sleeping outside in minus four degrees isn’t something most DCU students expect to experience during their studies. But for one group of Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) participants this year, it became part of a leadership challenge designed to move beyond theory and into real-world impact.
The sleep out took place in November of 2025 and was organised in support of Focus Ireland.
It raised over €32,000, contributing to more than €112,000 generated by Executive MBA cohorts over the past decade. Yet according to Professor Patrick Flood, course director of the programme, the initiative is about more than just fundraising.
Its origins trace back to a leadership interview project, created to bring real-world perspectives into the classroom. One conversation in particular, with Sister Stanislaus Kennedy, founder of Focus Ireland, left a lasting impression on Flood,
“I was very impressed by her mission and her determination to serve the poorest of the poor”.
What began as leadership interviews and educational material, gradually evolved into a long-running fundraising initiative. Students mobilised their professional networks and corporate connections to support Focus Ireland.
This year’s sleep out added a new layer to that experience.
“It turned out to be a great team bonding exercise,” Flood said. “There was singing and camaraderie, but also a realisation of how difficult it is just to pass the night in the cold.”
While he acknowledges that a group sleep out cannot fully replicate the reality of homelessness, the physical challenge created a deeper understanding.
“It’s slightly artificial because they are supporting each other,” he explained. “But they really got a sense of the effort that goes into simply existing and getting through the night.”
The initiative forms part of a leadership module focused on positive change, encouraging participants to reflect not only on career success but also on purpose and social responsibility.
According to Flood, many students describe the experience as one of the most memorable aspects of the programme.
“It helps build social consciousness,” he said. “They begin to develop empathy and compassion, and I’m quite sure it makes for better leaders.”
Looking ahead, Flood hopes the initiative can expand beyond the Executive MBA cohort and become something that is embraced across the wider DCU community.
“If 20 students can raise €32,000 in four weeks, imagine what could be achieved with wider student involvement.”
With growing interest and support already emerging, the sleep out may only be the beginning, opening the door for students across DCU to engage more directly with social challenges and turn awareness into action.
“Special thanks to the MBA Group led by Sean Glen, Grainne Sutcliffe, Siobhan Sweeney and Rob O Donnell ; MBA Director, Eric Clinton and MBA Programme Manager, Nuala Lonergan.”
Image Credit: Patrick Flood