An unexpected turn in college set Dr. Jenny Wilson O’Raghallaigh ’94 on a path that’s now grabbing attention from readers and critics alike.
The former English major at Keuka College just released her debut novel, Mandatory Reporting — a dark, twisty psychological thriller that unfolds in modern-day Dublin. It’s already made waves, landing a spot on the shortlist for the Crime Writers’ Association’s Debut Dagger award.
Set in Ireland, the book follows Jonah, an American student whose year abroad turns sinister after he’s forced into a psychology class instead of engineering. Therapy sessions, tangled relationships, and a chilling death spiral into a mystery that leaves Jonah unsure whether he’s a suspect, a target — or both.
From Keuka Park to Trinity College
Dr. O’Raghallaigh, now a clinical psychologist and lecturer in Dublin, credits Keuka College’s Field Period® program with changing her life.
“My final Field Period® was in mental health support, and that really showed me where I could make a difference,” she said.
That experience led her to pursue a doctorate at Trinity College Dublin. Since 2000, she’s built a career in mental health, publishing widely in her field — but only recently returned to creative writing.
“Finally, my two passions have come together,” she said.
A different kind of reporting
Though the novel isn’t autobiographical, Dr. O’Raghallaigh’s background in psychology clearly fuels the emotional depth and realism in Mandatory Reporting. The book was published by Seventh Street Books in 2024.
Dr. O’Raghallaigh joins a growing list of Keuka College alumni turning experiential learning into lasting impact — and in her case, a page-turner with plenty of suspense.
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