About us

About the Dean of Students
I was appointed Dean of Students in September 2023. In that role, I have strategic responsibility for student experience at University of Galway, and I have oversight of the Student Success Strategy and the Sports Strategy. Perhaps most importantly for you, I am a voice for students on the University Management Team. As Dean of Students, I also act as the University's Disciplinary Officer. I am passionate about empowering the student voice, fostering a sense of belonging, and enhancing student experience. Whilst wanting to nurture our community of students, I fully recognise that it is made up of communities, and it is important that we embrace and celebrate diversity.

The Sports Unit and Student Services, which encompasses the Access Centre, Career Development Centre, Societies, Accommodation, Chaplaincy and Counselling, report into my office. From the moment you embark on your journey here, our team works to support you and enhance your time at the University.

A bit about me
A native of Dublin, I graduated with a BA in History in 2003 and a PhD in Irish History in 2007, both from UCD where I then worked for the next six years. I joined the University of Hertfordshire in 2013, and I went on to serve as Head of History and Heritage Studies and later as Associate Dean Student Experience in the School of Humanities. During this time, I became a senior fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA).
As a historian, I specialise in the political and social transformation of independent Ireland. I have published widely on the evolution of the political system, and on the gendered experience of everyday life.

About the Student Success Manager 
I was appointed to the new post of Student Success Manager in June 2021. My main focus has been the development of University of Galway’s first Student Success Strategy which we aim to launch in 2025. Our University is nothing without our students and I believe that a firm commitment to supporting the success of all our students should be at the heart of everything that we do. Successful implementation of the Strategy will embed structures, policies and practices with the potential to transform the student experience and student success, ultimately making real improvements to the lives of our students, our university community, our society, and our planet.

A bit about me
I arrived in Galway from Dublin to study at University of Galway in 2000. I was a mature student with two small children at the time. I graduated with a BA in Public and Social Policy in 2003 and an MA in Economic Policy Evaluation and Planning in 2004 – and never left! I’ve held a number of roles across the university, including in teaching, research, programme management and student support. Before joining the Office of the Dean of Students, I was based in the University’s Access Centre, working on the design and delivery of Access and Foundation programmes and then as a Disability Advisor with the Disability Support Service. I am deeply interested in student engagement and partnership, mental health and wellbeing, and inclusive practice and universal design.

About the Administrator
I am working in the Office of the Dean of Students since 2021.  The main purpose of my role is to support the Dean of Students in leading the strategy of the University with regard to the student experience.  The role focuses on providing advice, assistance and support to students to deal with personal, social, emotional and financial issues.  Working with the Dean of Students and colleagues in the University, the aim is to ensure students get the most from their university experience, to achieve their full potential and success. 

A bit about me
Before taking up the post in the Office of the Dean of Students, I worked in the College of Science and Engineering.  I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Social Care) and a M. Phil in Social Care from University of Galway, and also hold a Certificate in Mental Health awareness. 

I was appointed to the new role of Universal Design Manager in January 2025. I work with colleagues and students across the University, with national agencies and institutional partners, and with local community groups and Disabled Persons Organisations (DPOs), towards a universally designed campus environment and community that is accessible to and inclusive of all, regardless of size, age, ability or disability. I am the Access Officer for the University and, in this role, I support students, staff and campus visitors who experience accessibility barriers, and identify design solutions to meet their needs. Collaboration and partnership are key to my work and I work closely with disabled students/students with disabilities to co-create universal design solutions and projects.

A bit about me

Originally from Donegal, I have lived in Galway since 1997 when I began my BA English, Sociology and Politics. I graduated from my BA in 2000 and followed that with an MA in English Literature and Publishing, graduating in 2001. I missed the University so much that I returned in 2006 to complete a PhD in Political Communications and Media Sociology. I spent some time teaching in University during and after my doctoral studies, then moved into an educational development role in the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching in 2018. From there I began my universal design journey as the Physical Accessibility Coordinator with the Access Centre in 2021.