Celebrating Excellence: DELTA Award 2025–2028

Published: Wednesday 8 April 2026 - 12:47

On 26 March 2026, the Pharmacy Technician Studies Programme team was honoured to receive the prestigious DELTA Award for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (2025–2028) at the national Learning and Teaching Awards ceremony.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for the programme, representing its third consecutive DELTA Award, following previous successes in 2018–2021 and 2021–2024. This sustained recognition reflects a deeply embedded culture of collaboration, innovation, and educational excellence across staff, students, and alumni.

The School proudly acknowledges the leadership and commitment of those who have guided the programme over the years:

• Dr Julie Dunne, Head of School and founding Programme Chair, who led the programme to its first DELTA Award (2018–2021);
• Dr Gemma Kinsella, Head of Discipline and former Programme Chair, who led the programme to the DELTA Award (2021–2024);
• Dr Tao Zhang, current Programme Chair, who has led the team in achieving the 2025–2028 award.

The award is a testament to the dedication and contributions of the entire Pharmacy Technician Studies community:

• Academic Team: Dr Tao Zhang, Dr Seána Hogan, Kathryn Young, Mary-Therese McGrath, Dr David O’Connor, Dr Renee Malone, Dr Swarna Jaiswal, Dr Karen Casey, Dr Michael McAuley, Dr Denis O’Shea, Professor Christine O’Connor, and Dr Louise Kearney.
• School Executive: Dr Julie Dunne and Dr Gemma Kinsella.
• Professional Services: Jill Barrett (Career Development Centre) and Scott Ahearn (Counselling Service).
• Student and Alumni Representatives: Noelle McCabe, Simon Tee-Carter, Rabica Javed, and Laura Smith.

The team was especially honoured by the presence of Pro John Doran, Dean of the Faculty of Sciences and Health, who attended the ceremony in support of this achievement.

The School also extends sincere thanks to the Higher Education Authority, the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, and the DELTA Award judging panel for their continued support and recognition.

This award celebrates not only past and present achievements but also the programme’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, student-centred education. The School acknowledges with gratitude all current and former staff, students, and collaborators whose dedication continues to drive the programme’s success.

Further details about the event are available here.