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News 2023

Athena Swan Bronze Awards

8 May 2023

The School of Mathematical Sciences and the School of Computer Science and Information Technology have received Athena SWAN Bronze Awards for positive gender practice in higher education.

The awards follow an assessment of gender equality in the Schools’ policies, practices and structures, and it recognises UCC’s commitment to ensuring that gender equality is embedded across the university.

Dr Tony Fitzgerald and Ms Kathleen O’Sullivan led the self-assessment team (SAT) in the School of Mathematical Sciences, and Professor John P. Morrison led the SAT in the School of Computer Science and Information Technology.

Professor Stephen Byrne, UCC Deputy President & Registrar and Chair of UCC’s Athena SWAN Steering Group, said: “The awards recognise our commitment to delivering and promoting gender equality, making UCC a positive and inclusive working environment in which everyone can reach their full potential. As Chair of the Athena SWAN Steering Group, I have seen the great dedication of our staff to ensure representation, progression and success for all.”

Dr Tony Fitzgerald said: “The School of Mathematical Sciences was proud to receive our first Athena Swan Bronze award. The award reflects the dedication and enthusiasm of staff from all three disciplines within the School. We are committed to ensuring that equality, diversity and inclusion become interwoven with day-to-day practices. We hope to reshape the landscape of what is traditionally a male dominated field.”

Professor John P. Morrison said: “The School of Computer Science and Information Technology is delighted to be formally part of Athena Swan and looks forward to strengthening its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, especially with respect to attracting and promoting women in science.”

The Athena SWAN Charter is an accreditation framework that is used across the globe to support and transform gender equality in higher education and research. Athena SWAN launched in Ireland in 2015 and versions of the charter are in place in the UK, Australia, the U.S.A., and Canada. UCC has held an institutional Athena SWAN award since 2016 (renewed in 2019) and now holds 17 School-level awards.

College of Science, Engineering and Food Science

Coláiste na hEolaíochta, na hInnealtóireachta agus na hEolaíochta Bia

Block E, Level 3, Food Science Building, UCC, Cork, T12 YN60.

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