TU Dublin Celebrates the Class of 2025
Over 5,000 graduates were celebrated this October at a series of 22 conferring ceremonies on TU Dublin’s Tallaght Campus, marking a proud milestone for students, families and staff.
Welcoming graduates and guests, Dr Deirdre Lillis, President of TU Dublin, described graduation as “one of life’s major transitions, marking the end of one journey and the beginning of another.” Dr Lillis praised the resilience of students who balanced study, work and family commitments to reach this moment, and extended a warm welcome to those from conflict-affected regions who completed their studies with courage and hope.
Among this year’s graduates, Dr Declan O’Keeffe’s story stood out. After suffering two strokes and heart failure while walking the Camino de Santiago, Declan completed his PhD with the support of his family, supervisor Dr Eamon Maher and colleagues, a true reflection of TU Dublin’s spirit of resilience and compassion.
The Faculty of Business honoured Rachel Brady, Ireland’s Marketing Student of the Year, and Ciara Walsh, co-founder of JustTip, for their entrepreneurial achievements. The University also celebrated the first graduates of the MBA in Life Sciences Leadership, the only programme of its kind in Ireland.
Graduates in Medical Science, Dietetics and Sports Analytics, Technology and Innovation were applauded for advancing healthcare and performance, while the School of Physics, Clinical and Optometric Sciences was recognised for its industry partnerships and impactful research.
Dr Lillis praised TU Dublin staff for their dedication and called on graduates to stay connected through the Alumni Network, which now represents over 175,000 graduates worldwide.
Reflecting on the changing world shaped by technology and climate challenges, she encouraged graduates to use their education with purpose:
“AI is a remarkable tool, but it cannot replace human judgment or creativity. Your education has prepared you to adapt, think critically and work collaboratively.”
Quoting Seamus Heaney, Dr Lillis concluded: “Believe that a farther shore is reachable from here.”
