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ACE at UCC Director Séamus Ó Tuama Honoured with 2024 AAACE President’s Appreciation Award
ACE at UCC congratulates Director Dr. Séamus Ó Tuama on receiving the 2024 AAACE President’s Appreciation Award, recognising his exemplary contributions to adult and continuing education globally.
Dr. Séamus Ó Tuama, Director of ACE (Adult Continuing Education) at University College Cork (UCC), has been awarded the prestigious 2024 President’s Appreciation Award by the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education (AAACE). The award recognises exemplary commitment and service to the field of adult and continuing education.
Dr. Ó Tuama shares this honour with two other distinguished educators: Dr. Michelle Glowacki-Dudka of Ball State University, USA, and Dr. E. Paulette Isaac-Savage of the University of Missouri-St. Louis, USA. The award was presented by the 2023-2024 AAACE President, Dr. Steven Frye, during the AAACE Annual Conference in Marietta, Georgia, this November.
The President’s Appreciation Award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated selfless dedication, leadership, and commitment to advancing adult education. Recipients are recognised for their contributions to significant projects and for fostering the achievement of educational goals within diverse learning environments.
Dr. Ó Tuama has been a transformative leader at UCC, directing Ireland’s oldest university centre dedicated to adult and continuing education. His work extends beyond administration; as a senior lecturer in political science at UCC’s Department of Government, his research focuses on applying theories of respect, dignity, and rights in adult education. With a background in journalism and community work, Dr. Ó Tuama has also managed large-scale social research initiatives, showcasing a commitment to societal impact and lifelong learning.
Commenting on the award, Dr. Ó Tuama said:
"It is an honour to receive this recognition alongside such esteemed colleagues. Adult and continuing education is critical to fostering opportunity, equity, and growth, and I am proud to contribute to this mission through my work at UCC and beyond."
Dr. Glowacki-Dudka was recognised for her research on collaborative learning and online education, while Dr. Isaac-Savage was celebrated for her pioneering work on the adult learning experiences of African Americans within the African American church. Together, the three awardees exemplify the breadth and depth of leadership in adult and continuing education globally.
The AAACE’s mission to expand opportunities for adult growth and development aligns closely with ACE at UCC’s ethos, as both organisations strive to advance the field through research, best practices, and advocacy.
Congratulations to Dr. Ó Tuama for this well-deserved recognition of his outstanding contributions to adult and continuing education.