TU Dublin Aurorans Gather for Inspiring Leadership Event

This week, seven TU Dublin colleagues joined almost two hundred women from across Higher Education at the Intercontinental Hotel, Ballsbridge, for the latest Aurora Leadership Development Programme day. The Aurora initiative forms part of TU Dublin’s Athena SWAN commitment to support women at the early stages of their leadership journey.

The programme featured an engaging panel on “The Future of Higher Education” with contributions from Dr Orla Flynn (President, ATU), Abi Kelly (RCSI) and Mark Latuske (Ulster University), who shared insights on sector-wide challenges, leadership in times of change, and the importance of inclusive, values‑driven practice. Advance HE facilitators Suzanne O’Brien and Christie Jennings guided participants through collaborative activities that encouraged reflection, confidence‑building, and peer connection.

The day was marked by a strong sense of energy and community, with many Aurorans commenting on how valuable it was to meet in person after earlier online sessions. TU Dublin’s 2025/26 Aurora cohort are Patrycja Ciesla, Dr Aíne Conaghan from the School of Tourism and Hospitality, Jennifer Fitzpatrick, Heidi Kelly Hogan, Dr Therese Murphy, Pamela O’Brien and Aoife Quinn Hegarty represented the University with enthusiasm.

The Aurorans are grateful for the strong support from TU Dublin in facilitating their participation, with particular thanks to Gabrielle Deegan, Professional Training & Development Manager, for her coordination and guidance. Appreciation is also extended to the Advance HE facilitators and to the mentors who continue the leadership journey with participants - their encouragement and insight remain central to the Aurora experience.