The University of Limerick honoured the achievements of scholarship and bursary recipients at its annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony, held on campus. The event brought together students, donors, University leaders and members of the UL Foundation to celebrate the power of philanthropy in shaping educational opportunity.
Scholarship recipients received their awards and met the generous benefactors, including companies, alumni and private individuals, whose support is helping transform their academic journeys.
The celebration was hosted by Interim Provost and Deputy President Professor Ann Ledwith and attended by UL Chancellor Professor Brigid Laffan, Acting President Professor Shane Kilcommins, as well as UL Foundation directors, including Founding UL President Dr Edward Walsh.
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Kilcommins highlighted the life-changing impact of scholarships on the UL community.
“The scholarships we honour this morning change lives. They remove barriers, open doors, and empower our students to pursue their potential with confidence. For that, we remain profoundly grateful to the donors whose vision and support make these opportunities possible” he said.
Professor Ann Ledwith reflected on UL’s enduring partnerships and focus on employability.
“UL’s close relationships with industry and our focus on real-world learning mean that our graduates consistently emerge career-ready, with employment rates that remain among the highest in the country. The impact of these scholarships reaches far beyond the campus — shaping graduates who will become the change-makers of tomorrow” she said.
In concluding remarks, Sarah Hartnett, Director of Development at the UL Foundation, spoke about the extraordinary power of philanthropy, saying:
“When students and all those who support them come together, we see the very best of what a university community can be. The UL Foundation is privileged to be part of this circle of generosity and potential, expanding opportunities for students and strengthening the University we all believe in.”
With a student population of more than 19,000, scholarships play a vital role in widening access, rewarding excellence, and empowering students to achieve their academic, professional, and personal goals.
The UL Foundation continues to expand its scholarship programmes to support students from all backgrounds, including those facing financial barriers, high-achieving scholars, and elite athletes striving for excellence both in the classroom and in competition.