School of Law receives Bronze Athena Swan Renewal Award

1 May 2026

We are delighted to announce that we have received a Bronze Athena Swan Renewal Award in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality.

The Athena Swan Ireland Charter offers a framework for progressing gender equality in higher education and research that is unique to Ireland. It is run by Advance HE, which has worked in partnership with the sector for 10 years, supported by the Higher Education Authority.

Sarah Fink, Head of Athena Swan Ireland, said:

“This Bronze Athena Swan award highlights the fantastic commitment of University College Cork, School of Law in bringing about change through impactful and sustainable gender equality initiatives in higher education across Ireland. Congratulations to all those who work so hard to achieve and sustain this recognition.”

Jennie Rothwell, Centre of Excellence for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Higher Education Authority, said:

"Action plans developed through the Athena Swan Ireland Charter enable higher education institutions and departments to take an evidence-based approach to addressing gender equality challenges. Congratulations to University College Cork, School of Law in taking this step forward to advance gender equality for all staff and students."

The panel found the School of Law’s application ‘to be honest and well considered, demonstrating a commitment to gender equality and diversity through strategic leadership and ongoing initiatives.’

Dr Fiona Donson, Chair of the School’s Self- Assessment Team said:

“We are delighted that the School of Law has received a Bronze Athena Swan Renewal Award recognising our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. The School SAT brought together a wide range of students and staff to reflect on, and strengthen, the operation of core EDI and fairness principles. We are committed to ensuring that these are central to our culture and in this way support all that we do. The bronze award highlights our successes to date and supports us as we continue our progress as a positive community that values all."

Prof Conor O'Mahony Dean of the School of Law said,
“Equality, diversity and inclusion are core values in the School of Law, informing our teaching, our research, our public engagement and all aspects of our work. I am delighted to see our commitment in this space recognised by the renewal of our Bronze award, and I look forward to targeting a Silver award in due course.”