More than 250 guests gathered at the Castletroy Park Hotel on 25 September for the 2026 UL Alumni Awards to celebrate the achievements and contributions of four outstanding University of Limerick graduates.
This year’s Alumni Awards were presented to Martin Cotter, Chief Business Units Officer and President, EMEA, at Analog Devices and a member of UL Foundation Board; acclaimed novelist Donal Ryan; diplomat Frances Collins; and investigative journalist Derek Bowler.
Reflecting on the achievements of the four recipients, UL President Professor Shane Kilcommins said: “What strikes me about each of tonight’s recipients is not simply their success, impressive though it is. It is their contribution. Through literature, diplomacy, technology and journalism, they have all sought to make a meaningful difference. They have used their talents not solely for personal achievement, but to create value for others.”
Hosted by UL alumna and broadcaster Dr Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh, the event brought together award recipients and their families and friends, fellow alumni, University colleagues, and representatives from the wider business and regional community.
We are grateful to lead sponsor Edwards Lifesciences and event partners Analog Devices, Bidvest Noonan, Clare County Council, Kirby Group Engineering and Unijobs for their support of this special celebration.
Congratulations to Martin, Donal, Frances and Derek on this well-deserved recognition and their outstanding contributions in Ireland and around the world.
