We are thrilled to honour award-winning novelist Deirdre Sullivan with the 2025 Alumni Award for Arts, Literature and Celtic Studies. Renowned for her unique blend of feminism, folklore, and gothic storytelling, Deirdre’s powerful works — including Tangleweed and Brine, Needlework, and Savage Her Reply — have earned widespread acclaim and captured the imagination of readers across generations. Join us as we celebrate Deirdre’s outstanding literary contributions and the creative spirit that continues to shape contemporary Irish literature.

Ag ceiliúradh Rónáin Uí Dhomhnaill – Gradam Alumni don Ghaeilge 2025, Ollscoil na Gaillimhe Is mór an onóir dúinn Gradam Alumni don Ghaeilge 2025 a bhronnadh ar Rónán Ó Domhnaill. Ní stopann Rónán ag cur na teanga chun cinn ina ghairm – ó bhí sé ina Choimisinéir Teanga go dtí an ról atá aige faoi láthair mar Choimisinéir um Fhorbairt na Meán le Coimisiún na Meán. Tá a cheannaireacht ag cur le tírdhreach cultúrtha agus teangeolaíoch na hÉireann.

Meet Dr. Elizabeth Whalen, MD, MPH, DipABLM – 2025 Alumni Award for Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences – Sponsored by Medtronic As Commissioner of Health for Albany County, New York, Elizabeth has demonstrated exceptional leadership in public health — most notably during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her steadfast commitment to evidence-based policy, community wellbeing, and compassionate care continues to shape healthier futures across the region. A proud University of Galway graduate, Elizabeth’s lifelong dedication to medicine and public health is a powerful inspiration to healthcare professionals and alumni worldwide.

Celebrating Dr. Fiona Grant – 2025 Alumni Award for Engineering, Science & Technology As Head of International Programmes at the Marine Institute and Chair of the European Marine Board IVZW, Fiona has been instrumental in shaping global policy around marine sustainability, climate adaptation, and ocean health. Her leadership and advocacy are driving meaningful change for our planet’s future. A proud University of Galway graduate, Dr. Grant continues to inspire the next generation of environmental scientists and engineers.

Meet Ríona: Trailblazing Innovation in MedTech As Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of ProVerum Medical, Ríona is a driving force in the medtech industry. Her visionary leadership has been key in the development of ProVee — a minimally invasive device designed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), providing a patient-friendly alternative to traditional surgery. A proud graduate of University of Galway with a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Ríona exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and passion. Her commitment to innovation is not only transforming global healthcare but also inspiring the next generation of medtech leaders.

Honouring Kevin Dinneen – 2025 Alumni Award for Contribution to Sport From his early days as captain and coach of UCG Rugby to his distinguished roles as Chair of Third Level Rugby and a member of the IRFU Appeals Board, Kevin has been a pillar of Irish rugby. His lifelong dedication to the sport has shaped its growth at every level — mentoring young athletes, driving development, and championing excellence. A proud graduate of University of Galway, Kevin’s legacy continues to inspire the rugby community and beyond.

Celebrating Judge Geoffrey Shannon – 2025 Alumni Award for Law, Public Policy & Society. Sponsored by RDJ.  A renowned legal expert and passionate advocate, Judge Shannon has made a lasting impact on child and family law in Ireland. His leadership in advancing child protection reforms and shaping national policy has significantly improved the lives of vulnerable children and families across the country. His steadfast commitment to justice, public service, and human rights continues to inspire and influence the legal profession and society at large.

The 2025 Summer Edition of Cois Coiribe takes closer look at the impact the Ryan Institute has on the world of climate, marine, and environmental analysis and the Irish Centre for Human Rights has in the realm of justice, resilience, and law. We connect with researchers of all stages and chat with some alumni who have had profound influence in their field of expertise. Get a glimpse of the impressive work taking place locally and around the globe!

Looking for insights informed by data and research? Cois Coiribe is University of Galway’s platform for research and opinion from our global academic and alumni community – bringing clarity to tomorrow’s challenges.

As the university launches a new strategic partnership with Druid theatre, Garry Hynes & Marie Mullen toured campus and reminisced on their days in ‘UCG’, where they co-founded the theatre company. They speak to some current Drama students to hear about their student experience.