DCU Educational Trust
News & Events
Broadening Educational Access: Building Ireland's Future, One Student at a Time
LtoR: Vicky Kavanagh - 3rd year BA Journalism, Siobhan Moore - President Fingal Chamber of Commerce, and External Communications Manager at Dublin Airport President of DCU - Prof. Brian MacCraith, Raymond Moran - 2nd year Genetics Cell Biology, Larry Quinn - Chairman DCU. Educational Trust and Chairman, Accuris Networks.
On Thursday 12th May, Professor Brian MacCraith, President of Dublin City University welcomed over 60 professionals from across various industry and corporate sectors to a breakfast briefing on "Broadening Educational Access: Building Ireland's Future, One Student at a Time", highlighting DCU's groundbreaking Access Scholarship Programme that celebrates its 21st Anniversary this year.
The DCU Access Scholarship Programme represents Dublin City University's commitment to its founding mission of opening the doors of higher education to those who might not otherwise benefit from the power of education. The DCU Access Programme, initiated in 1990 and was the first of its kind in Ireland, targeting young people who have the ability to benefit from and succeed in higher education but who are under-represented at universities for socio-economic reasons such as long-term unemployment, little or no family tradition of attending university, pressure to contribute to the family budget, family stresses and lack of study facilities or support at home. The DCU Access Programme is now the largest and most far-reaching programme in the country with over 430 undergraduate students attending DCU from the 26 counties throughout Ireland.
Guests, including prominent business leaders, alumni, national and local government and chamber representatives, heard from Declan Collier, Chief Executive, Dublin Airport Authority, who spoke about the DAA's overall partnership with Dublin City University, including their support of the DCU Access Programme and their strong relationship with the University, highlighting collaborations such as An tSli Glas, Ireland's first clean-tech corridor and the university's recently established Bsc in Aviation Management programme in the DCU Business School.
Ita Tobin, Head of the DCU Access Service reinforced the impact that the Access Programme has had on hundreds of students for whom university education has been made possible before inviting Scholarship Recipients, Raymond Moran, 2nd year BSc Genetics and Cell Biology and Vicky Kavanagh, 3rd year B.A. Journalism student to speak on their journey so far at DCU and the support they have received in enabling them to pursue their educational and professional aspirations. Finally, Chief Executive of the DCU Educational Trust, Patrick McDermott closed the speaker programme informing guests that Access Scholarships are funded entirely by the private support sector, encouraging guests to consider both personal and corporate philanthropy as a tangible way of partnering with the university and demonstrating their belief that all students should have the tools to fulfill their dreams and ambitions.
The morning briefing concluded with a networking reception where guests and students representing the DCU Access Scholarship Programme were afforded the opportunity to informally meet each other.
If you would like to receive further information on the DCU Access Scholarship Programme or wish to attend a future briefing, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust office at (353) 1-700-5467 or orla.holmes@dcu.ie
The Citi Speaker Series - Frank Ennis and Sean Gallagher.
This semester, the DCU Educational Trust were pleased to welcome to campus two admired business leaders to participate in the Citi Speaker Series and speak to undergraduate students in the DCU Business School who were also joined by members of the DCU Enterprise Society.
First of the visits came on Thursday 7th April, when students got to hear from Independent Corporate Financier/ Independent Director, Frank Ennis and shared his own experiences and life lessons learned while working in different sectors and on different projects such as the founding of the Irish Financial Services Centre. Frank stressed the importance of networking and cultural appreciation and reminded students that there are still opportunities for graduates in the emerging markets. On Thursday 21st April, Sean Gallagher, noted Irish Entrepreneur, Disability Campaigner & Dragon’s Den star, spoke to a packed class detailing his life and career to-date and providing practical and insightful advice as to managing both career and personal life. Sean encouraged the students to involve themselves in their local and national communities and to always have passion for their work. Both speakers got to listen to a number of live business plans developed by students and student teams and provided advise to the budding entrepreneurs as to the next steps in commercialising their ideas in the Irish and Global markets. Over 200 students attended both sessions and from which smaller groups were invited back to the Lounge, Albert College for lunch and a more informal session with the guest speakers.
The DCU Educational Trust would like to thank Citi Ireland for its generous sponsorship of the Citi Speaker Series. The Citi Speaker Series runs in conjunction with the DCU Business School, offering an Enterprise Development Mentoring Programme to inspire DCU’s final year business students with entrepreneurial creativity tempered by practical commercial realism. Through their participation in the Citi Series, students gain a unique opportunity to actively engage with senior business practitioners on a range of issues, enhancing their skills and their knowledge of what it takes to do business. Previous participants in the Series have included, Mark Little, Irish Journalist and Current Affairs TV Presenter, Bill Cullen of the Glencullen Group, Mary Davis of Special Olympics Ireland, Gavin Duffy, Entrepreneur, Media Coach and Dragon’s Den Panellist, Michael Patten of Diageo Ireland – just to name a few.
For more information on how you may become involved or attend future events, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust on (01) 700 8162 or email orla.holmes@dcu.ie
SALIS graduate scoops Cipherion Translations ‘Best Thesis’ award
A DCU SALIS (School of Applied Languages and Intercultural Studies) graduate has been awarded a ‘Best Thesis’ prize by leading Irish translation company, Cipherion Translations.
Enrika Baleviciute, who is a graduate of the BA in Languages for International Communications programme, wrote her dissertation on ‘crowdsourced’ (community-based) translations
María Jesús de Arriba Díaz, COO with Cipherion Translations, said that the crowdsourcing is a major topic of interest in the industry at the moment. “It is highly relevant as it is a challenging emerging phenomenon, on which very little research has been carried out to date. Enrika’s dissertation shows clearly that although crowdsourcing has its place, mainly in community-based initiatives and platforms, it by no means replaces the clarity of message that professional translations bring to an organisation’s brand, corporate messaging and profile.” SALIS provides world class research and teaching in Translation Studies. Students are given the opportunity to study topics relating to contemporary translation scenarios both at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Ranging from multimedia translation to scientific technical translation, students are prepared for dynamically changing translation environments.
The aim of the final year thesis is to encourage students to apply the theoretical and practical knowledge gained in their studies in research that is relevant to the business of translation.
Support for the Cipherion Translations’ Best Thesis Prize was arranged through the DCU Educational Trust.
Cipherion Translations is an award-winning translation and localization service provider of software, website and marketing collateral into over 40 languages. For more information, visit http://www.cipherion.com
On Tuesday 1st March, Professor P. Anne Scott, Deputy President/Registrar, DCU welcomed over 100 female business leaders, alumni and students to the Helix to examine the decisions and concerns faced by women today in their professional lives and to discuss the challenges that must be overcome and the tactics successful women have used under the theme of “It’s A Woman’s Prerogative”.
The event was facilitated by DCU Alumna and TV3 Sports Reporter / Presenter, Sinead Kissane, with inspirational talks provided by Helen Collins, Chairperson, Women’s Fund for Ireland and Deputy Chair, Adoption Authority of Ireland, Mairead Fleming, Deputy Managing Director, Brightwater Recruitment, Shiera O’Brien, Managing Director, Zenith Training & Development, Krishna De, CEO of Biz Growth Media and Irish Ambassador for the European Network of Female Entrepreneurship Ambassadors and Clara Halpin, Head of Personal Shopping at Arnotts. The speakers guided guests on ways to maintain a healthy wellbeing whilst adapting to change and the importance of personal branding as a means of women’s empowerment in making the right impression.
The talks concluded with a general Q & A session, before Sinead introduced Arnotts in conjunction with members of the DCU Style Society to present a small fashion show, showcasing some tasters of what to wear to Dress for Success and an exclusive viewing of the Arnotts Spring/Summer Collection. The programme included a fun raffle, with fabulous prizes sponsored by Arnotts and the DCU Style Society and from which all proceeds go towards the DCU Annual Fund, which supports Access Scholarships at DCU.
The evening finished with a wine reception allowing guests the opportunity to expand their business network, exchanging advice and connections with others who share their passion for success in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
ABOUT;
WIN@DCU is a bi-annual speaker series, part of the DCU strategic theme “Business and Innovation”. This speaker series highlights the achievements of innovative women in business, science, communications and the humanities and invites leading women from these professions to DCU to share their thoughts on contemporary themes. The aim of the series is to empower our undergraduate students by giving them the opportunity to meet with these successful women as positive role models and to offer a learning and networking opportunity to our alumni and friends. Topics to date in the series have included: Redesigning your Marketing Plan for Survival in the New Economy; Leadership – It is Not just For Leaders; Social Entrepreneurship – Investing in Social Development; the Glass Ceiling – Does it Still Exist? - and a wide range of topical matters under the themes of Enterprise / Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Since its initiation, the WIN@DCU programme has proven to be a tremendous success in connecting women in business and in particular affording undergraduate students the opportunity to meet and gain invaluable advice from some of Ireland’s leading professional women.
The cross-faculty WIN@DCU is proudly sponsored by the DCU Educational Trust.
For more information on how you may become involved or attend future events, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust on (01) 700 8162 or email orla.holmes@dcu.ie
The DCU Educational Trust
The DCU Educational Trust is a registered charity (CHY 8960) established in 1988 to advance the development of Dublin City University. It is by building philanthropic relationships with friends, corporations, alumni, foundations and community groups that the DCU Educational Trust demonstrates the unique culture of Dublin City University and the power of higher education to change lives. Read more http://www.dcu.ie/trust/
DCU Citi Speaker Series Panel Discussion - 11th November 2010
On Thursday 11 November over 300 invited guests and students gathered in the Helix, DCU for the Citi Speaker Series, 2010 Panel Discussion on “University of Enterprise: Delivering Ireland’s Next Class of Successful Entrepreneurs”.
Guests were welcomed by DCU President, Professor Brian MacCraith before providing a brief overview of the strategic vision he is laying out for Dublin City University, first delivered in his Inaugural Address in July. Professor MacCraith stated, “Dublin City University will be a modern dynamic ‘University of Enterprise’ delivering significant value to the nation and graduating students who can lead the next successful era in Ireland’s history.”
The panel discussion was facilitated by noted RTÉ Correspondent for Education and Science, Emma O’Kelly and included expert panelists: Gavin Duffy – Entrepreneur, Media Coach and Dragon’s Den Panelist, Padraig McKeon – Director at Drury Communications and Trustee of DCU Educational Trust, Una Halligan – Government Affairs Director, Hewlett Packard Ireland & Chair of Expert Group on Future Skills Needs and Manus Rogan – Co-founder and Managing Partner, Fountain Healthcare Partners & Member of the Board of Directors of Amarin Corporation, Opsona Therapeutics & the Irish Venture Capital Association.
The event offered audience members – including both undergraduate and postgraduate DCU students - a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse and seasoned panel of experts as they explored the benefits of transforming the third level sector through interactive academic and enterprise programmes that empower young people with increased industry knowledge, bridging the gap between education and business. Taking a positive and proactive approach, the panelists explored the opportunities available in an economic downturn and how in their experience, they believe Ireland’s current economic situation holds benefits for both graduates of the university seeking employment and business opportunities, but also for the university itself in refining and redefining its role in Irish society.
The DCU Educational Trust would like to thank Citi and the Citi Foundation for their generous sponsorship of the Citi Speaker Series at Dublin City University. The Citi Series runs in coordination with the DCU Business School, offering an Enterprise Development Mentoring Programme to inspire DCU’s final year business students, with entrepreneurial creativity tempered with practical commercial realism. Through their participation in the Citi Series, students gain a unique opportunity to actively engage with senior business practitioners on a range of issues, enhancing their skills and their knowledge of what it takes to do business in the modern environment.
For more information on how you may become involved or attend future events, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust on (01) 700 8162 or email orla.holmes@dcu.ie
The 2010 DCU Leadership Circle Dinner Celebrates the DCU Community of Friends and Supporters.
On Friday 25 June, the Board of Trustees, DCU Educational Trust hosted the annual DCU Leadership Circle Dinner for those members of the DCU Community who have actively supported the University in its development. Over 120 guests, many representing leading Irish and US corporates as well as alumni and other individual donors gathered together in the inviting 1838 Dining, Albert College and were joined by Guest of Honour, Lionel Alexander, President of the American Chamber of Commerce and Vice President & Managing Director of Hewlett Packard. Mr. Alexander spoke on the true value of third level education and the significant role it plays in facilitating Ireland’s workforce to be highly skilled and attractive in continuing to secure international interest in new business.
This year’s reception also proudly celebrated 20 years of the DCU Access Programme, which currently has over 450 students, studying various disciplines on scholarships at DCU. University is still not possible for many students from economically or socially disadvantaged backgrounds, largely due to their financial situation. The DCU Educational Trust supports students who receive a place on the DCU Access Programme (http://www.dcu.ie/trust/can_you_help.shtml) with scholarships funded entirely by the private sector.
Third year journalism student and Access scholarship recipient, Vicky Kavanagh shared her story on the life-transforming opportunities opened up for her since accessing education Vicky thanked guests for their generosity in granting her the “keys to the kingdom” in enabling her to reach and achieve education and career ambitions. Vicky was joined by Access Programme alumnus, Martin Lynch, who graduated in 2009 with a Bachelor in Business Studies Degree and is now in his first year of employment for a developing Irish company. Martin reflected on his journey through DCU and highlighted just some of the professional skills he developed as well as discovering personal confidence and realising his potential(s).
During the evening, three DCU Leadership Awards were presented to Ita Tobin, Head of DCU Access Service and Student Recruitment for her team’s role in developing the DCU Access Programme to be the largest of its kind in Ireland; and to State Street International who were honoured with the Corporate Leadership Award for their support of the DCU Access Scholarship Programme. Finally, a special recognition award was presented to Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski, in recognition of the leadership and vision that he demonstrated during his presidency of DCU, which ends on the 13h July.
The evening concluded with a raffle of marvelous prizes. We are pleased to announce that €12,000 was raised, with all proceeds going towards the DCU Access Programme in funding further scholarships. The DCU Educational Trust would like to thank all those who generously sponsored items for the raffle including Bill Cullen & Jackie Lavin, Bewleys Limited, Crowne Plaza Northwood, Hewlett Packard, Iarnrod Eireann, Musgraves, Panasonic Ireland, Philips Ireland and The Helix. All guests received a goodie bag containing items kindly sponsored by our following supporters; Aran Candy Ltd, Beiersdorf Ireland, Bewleys Coffee Ltd, Business & Finance, Butlers Chocolates, Carlow Brewery, Colet Personal Care, Haribo Ireland, Image Magazine, Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, L’Oreal Golden, and Unilever Ireland.
The DCU Leadership Circle
The DCU Leadership Circle is a community of supporters and friends of Dublin City University. Membership recognises and acknowledges the contributions made by donors whose generosity and vision help to bring Dublin City University to the next level of its development as a world-class centre of research and learning. To become a member, donors make annual contributions of €1,000 or more to Dublin City University. Read more http://www.dcu.ie/trust/leadership_circle.shtml
The DCU Educational Trust
The DCU Educational Trust is a registered charity (CHY 8960) established in 1988 to advance the development of Dublin City University. It is by building philanthropic relationships with friends, corporations, alumni, foundations and community groups that the DCU Educational Trust demonstrates the unique culture of Dublin City University and the power of higher education to change lives. Read more http://www.dcu.ie/trust/
DCU Leadership Circle Members, Cipherion Translations offers “Best Thesis” prize to translation students in DCU’s School of Applied Language and Intercultural Studies (SALIS).
16 July 2010
Cipherion Translations, an Irish company specialising in translating software, websites and marketing materials into as many as 40 languages, is offering a prize of €750 to the best final year B.A. or M.A. thesis on a topic related to the translation industry. Every year, several students of translation studies undertake research on topics related to the business of translation or translation technology. Theses will be judged by Cipherion’s COO (María Jesús de Arriba Díaz), who has a background in translation studies from the University of Salamanca in Spain, and who has over 10 years’ experience within the business of translation.
Criteria such as innovativeness, creativity and relevance to the SME sector will be considered as part of the evaluation. The aim is to encourage students to apply the theoretical and practical knowledge they gain in their studies in research that is relevant to the business of translation.
Referring to the importance of DCU’s School of Applied Language and Intercultural Studies and its graduates, María Jesús de Arriba Díaz, COO of Cipherion Translations adds “We have hired graduates directly from SALIS into our project management team and always found that they are of the highest calibre. They have always had a good knowledge of the theoretical aspects of translation as well as an ability to apply their theory in the real world of translation and localization.”
“This award emphasizes to students that the courses they take in translation and technology are important and the research skills and knowledge they acquire are valued by companies,” says Dr. Sharon O’Brien, a lecturer in translation and technology at SALIS, DCU. “We find that students of our courses are benefiting from the close collaborative ties that we have with DCU’s Centre for Next Generation Localisation (CNGL). Our students are in a unique position where they can benefit from up to date research and development being carried out at the CNGL.”
“Whether we like it or not, globalization is now relevant for many Irish companies and the sooner we all grasp that concept – and start “going global” - the quicker we will rebound from our current situation” says Mark Rodgers, CEO of Cipherion Translations. “As Irish organizations start to export more into mainland Europe and Asia, our SME sector is being forced to embrace translation and localization in a way that was never needed before.”
Dr. Páraic Sheridan, Operations Director at CNGL adds “We’re keenly aware at CNGL of the importance of supporting the Irish SME sector in reaching out to global markets and we’re delighted to welcome Cipherion Translations’ support for our industry-focused research and education programme. We’re committed to collaborating closely with the localisation industry to ensure that Ireland will retain its global leadership position in the technologies and services that underpin the ‘Next Generation’ of localisation.”
Additional Information
SALIS (http://www.dcu.ie/salis/index.shtml) offers an undergraduate B.A. in Applied Language and Intercultural Studies, and M.A. in Translation Studies and an M.Sc.in Translation Technology, among other programmes.
The Centre for Next Generation Localisation (http://www.cngl.ie), funded by Science Foundation Ireland, is a dynamic Academia-Industry partnership with over 100 researchers investigating and developing new technologies and approaches to address the key challenges of organisations looking to overcome language barriers associated with doing business in a globalized world.
Cipherion Translations (http://www.cipherion.com/) is an award-winning translation and localization service provider with an unrivalled customer service record built on a process-based approach to delivering quality translation services. Cipherion Translations was established in 2006 and is based in Dublin, Ireland. Cipherion Translations is embracing the natural synergy that exists between university and industry and actively seeks to support the links between SALIS, CNGL and Irish SME’s that are looking to go global.
Mark Rodgers, CEO http://www.cipherion.com
DCU Presidential Inauguration
14 June 2010
Professor Brian MacCraith
The Inauguration of Professor Brian MacCraith as President of Dublin City University takes place on Tuesday 13 July 2010 at 12 noon in the Mahony Hall, The Helix.
All alumni, staff, students and friends of DCU are invited to attend the inauguration and a reception following the ceremony. Professor MacCraith will be officially inaugurated as the university's third president
Professor MacCraith received his B.Sc., M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Physics at NUI, Galway. He joined the staff of Dublin City University in 1986, and shortly thereafter established the Optical Sensors Research Laboratory. In October 1999, he became founding Director of the National Centre for Sensor Research at DCU and, in 2005, was appointed Director of the Biomedical Diagnostics Institute, an Academic-Industrial- Clinical partnership, after leading a successful proposal to Science Foundation Ireland. He serves on the Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering & Technology and the Forfas Advisory Science Council.
Students, staff and alumni are kindly requested to register their attendance no later than 1 July by clicking the following link.
www.dcu.ie/president/inauguration_form.php3
For all other interested parties, please phone the registration telephone line (01) 700 7700 before 1 July to confirm attendance.
Please note: Doors open at 11am and guests are asked to be in their seats by 11:45am, as the ceremony will begin promptly at 12pm and will end by 2pm.
Becoming a Stakeholder in Ireland’s Next Generation of ICT Leadership
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On Tuesday 20 April, the Board of the DCU Educational Trust invited business
leaders from the ICT sector to a briefing entitled Becoming a Stakeholder in Ireland’s Next Generation of ICT Leadership, to discover how in an age when technology is literally transforming our daily lives, DCU’s core programmes in Computing, Electronic Engineering and Communications continue to promote Ireland’s role as a centre of excellence in ICT.
Over 50 business leaders and alumni working within the sector attended and heard from Patrick Brazel, Chairman of Goldtier Technology LLC / Founder and CEO www.zignals.com and Bernie Cullinan, Chief Executive of Clarigen on where Ireland is placed in the world on delivering first class information, communications and technology and what needs to be done in establishing Ireland’s ICT as a global competitive profitable leader. Professor Alan Smeaton, Deputy Director of Clarity: Centre for Sensor Web Technologies updated guests on DCU’s unrivalled teaching programmes, research and resources and highlighted some of the University’s links with industry in continuously evolving its teaching modules to deliver highly skilled graduates with the knowledge and expertise necessary in advancing this sector. Guests were reminded of the importance of investing in Ireland’s next generation of skilled workforce and how everyone can play a role in sustaining this requirement, like the DCU Access Scholarship Programme. Two scholarship recipients studying in the area of multimedia and engineering shared their personal stories on the opportunities now open to them in attending third level and the support they receive through the Access Programme.
Pat concluded with trends in this sector in the future and how all involved, educational institutes, alumni, industry employers, must play an active role in its development and the placement of Ireland.inc as a global leader in the ICT sector. Funding in such programmes like the Access Programme can and will enable the delivery of qualified first class graduates in taking the required next steps in this advancement. We believe these students along with our vibrant research initiatives are helping shape Ireland’s Next Generation of ICT Leadership.
If you would like to received further information on the DCU Access Programme or wish to attend a future briefing, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust office at (353) 1-700-5467
Expanding ACCESS to Higher Education.
The DCU Access Programme was created in 1989 to target schools in the University’s North Dublin neighbourhood. It has since evolved into a national programme and now accepts students from all over the country, making it the largest and most successful programme of its kind in Ireland. DCU currently has over 400 students on access scholarships from all of the 26 counties. Every Access Scholarship is privately funded through the generosity of friends of DCU.
- Each year over 4,000 11-15 year olds drop out of school before reaching the Junior Certificate.
- Over 750,000 adults between the ages of 25 – 64 years of age have little or no formal educational qualifications.
- In some socio disadvantaged areas fewer than 2% of eligible young people progress to higher education (Higher Educational Authority, 2004)
The DCU Educational Trust supports students who receive a place on the DCU Access Programme with scholarships funded entirely by the private sector. These awards are vital to the students during their years at the university.
Promoting Entrepreneurial Aspirations in a Modern Environment.
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The Citi Speaker Series.
The DCU Educational Trust was pleased to recently welcome two admired business leaders to campus to participate in the Citi Speaker Series and speak to undergraduate students in the DCU Business School.
On Tuesday 8th April, students got to hear from renowned broadcaster director, John McColgan of Riverdream Productions on his career in television, radio and theatre. To the interest of the students, John told the story of his role in the evolution of Riverdance from the original seven-minute dance number which went on to become a full stage-show spectacular, with sell-out appearances around the world. On Thursday 22nd April, Patrick Brazel, Chairman, Goldtier Technology LLC and Founder & CEO www.zignals.com visited the business class and shared his own experiences in business, particularly within the ICT sector – the challenges and successes – and encouraged students to be proactive in their career ambitions. Over 200 students attended both sessions and from which smaller groups were invited back to the Lounge, Albert College for lunch and a more informal session with the guest speakers.
The DCU Educational Trust would like to thank Citi Ireland for its generous sponsorship of the Citi Speaker Series. The Citi Series runs in coordination with the DCU Business School, offering an Enterprise Development Mentoring Programme to inspire DCU’s final year business students, with entrepreneurial creativity tempered by practical commercial realism. Through their participation in the Citi Series, students gain a unique opportunity to actively engage with senior business practitioners on a range of issues, enhancing their skills and their knowledge of what it takes to do business in the modern environment. Previous speakers in the Series have included, Bill Cullen of the Glencullen Group, Mary Davis of Special Olympics Ireland, Michael Patten of Diageo Ireland – just to name a few.
For more information on how you may become involved or attend future events, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust on (01) 700 8162 or email orla.holmes@dcu.ie
Upcoming briefing hosted by Mr. Patrick Brazel on Tuesday 20th April
Becoming a Stakeholder in Ireland’s Next Generation of ICT Leadership
Women's Innovation Network at Dublin City University (WIN@DCU) - Winter 2010 Panel
On Thursday 18th February, the DCU Educational Trust, welcomed over 100 female business leaders and students to the Helix to explore the credentials that allow successful individuals to achieve their goals and make an impact, under the theme of “The U Factor”.
The event was hosted by DCU Alumna and MD of Kennedy PR, Caroline Kennedy, with inspirational talks provided by Veronica Canning, Founder of the SHOES Programme, Gervaise Slowey, Managing Director of Ogilvy & Mather, Mary Ann O’Brien, Managing Director of Lily O’Brien’s Chocolates and Liavan Mallin, Entrepreneur and Trustee of the DCU Educational Trust. The speakers guided guests on ways to identify key personal strengths and how best to design your own individual strategic plan.
Guests heard how an individual’s brand can play a positive role in business. The talks concluded with a general Q & A session, before Caroline introduced members of the DCU Style Society to present a small fashion show, showcasing some tasters of what to wear to Dress for Success. All clothes showcased were provided courtesy of Ruby Couture, who sell ladies designer label fashions at high street prices. Ruby Couture also provided a fabulous designer label handbag for a raffle, proceeds from which went to the DCU Annual Fund, which supports Access Scholarships at DCU.
The evening finished with a wine reception allowing guests the opportunity to expand their business network, exchanging advice and connections with others who share their passion for success in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
ABOUT;
WIN@DCU is a bi-annual speaker series, part of the DCU strategic theme “Business and Innovation”. This speaker series highlights the achievements of innovative women in business, science, communications and the humanities and invites leading women from these professions to DCU to share their thoughts on contemporary themes. The aim of the series is to empower our undergraduate students by giving them the opportunity to meet with these successful women as positive role models and to offer a learning and networking opportunity to our alumni and friends. Topics to date in the series have included: Redesigning your Marketing Plan for Survival in the New Economy; From an Acorn to a Tree – How to Grow that Small Business Idea and a wide range of topical matters under the themes of Enterprise / Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Since its initiation, the WIN@DCU programme has proven to be a tremendous success in connecting women in business and in particular affording undergraduate students the opportunity to meet and gain invaluable advice from some of Ireland’s leading professional women.
The cross-faculty WIN@DCU is sponsored by the DCU Educational Trust. For more information on how you may become involved or attend future events, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust on (01) 700 8162 or email orla.holmes@dcu.ie
CITADEL100 sponsors the Dublin City University Access Scholarship Programme
DUBLIN/IRELAND, DECEMBER 18TH 2009 - CITADEL100, a member of the Keppel Group, and one of Europe’s leading and most innovative Datacenter owner and operators, specialising in designing, developing and operating 100% availability Next Generation Datacenters, today announced that it will be sponsoring the Dublin City University Access Scholarship Programme which co-ordinates a range of programmes aimed at increasing participation in higher education by students who for a variety of financial or social reasons do not view going to university as a viable or attractive option.
(Pictured from left) Karl Hennessy, C.O.O at CITADEL100 and Noel Meaney, Founder and Chairman of CITADEL100 handing over a gift cheque to Ita Tobin, Head of Access Services at Dublin City University and Catherine Brady, Director of Development at DCU Educational Trust.
“The Dublin City University Access Scholarship programme addresses one of the key social commitments of CITADEL100; to increase access to higher education for all. We are delighted to make a donation which will help address the financial burden and other barriers that prevent deserving young people from taking their rightful place at university. The gift from CITADEL will support 2 students through their entire college degree and another two students starting off on their degree (in the fifth year),” Mr Meaney said.
The overall aims of the DCU Access Scholarship Programme are; to develop positive attitudes to education, encourage more students to consider going on to third level education and to support those students who go on to third level to complete their course of study. CITADEL100’s investment in DCU’s Access Programme means that more young people than ever can grasp the opportunity to reach their full potential through higher education. In the long term, equality of participation in university life helps to promote equality of socio-economic class.
For further information on the DCU Access Scholarship Programme please log onto: http://www.dcu.ie/students/access/index.shtml
Ireland’s Metamorphosis
From Recession to Emergence
On Wednesday 21 October 2009 over 300 invited guests and students gathered in the Helix, DCU for the Citi Speaker Series, Panel Discussion on Ireland’s Metamorphosis; from Recession to Emergence.
The panel discussion was facilitated by noted RTE Current Affairs Report, Broadcaster and Author, Mark Little and included expert panellists: Bill Cullen – Chairman, Glencullen Group, Margaret Sweeney – Chief Executive, Postbank, Professor Anne Scott – Deputy President of DCU and Brian Hayes – Managing Director, Head of Global Transaction Services, Citibank Europe plc.
The event offered audience members the unique opportunity to engage with a diverse and seasoned panel of experts as they explored the ‘road ahead’ for Ireland and the path various sectors must take to ensure Ireland’s recovery and emergence from recession. Taking a positive and proactive approach to the current economic environment, the panellists explored the opportunities available in an economic downturn and how in their experience, they believed the rising generation can help lead Ireland into a new age. Audience members were also given the chance to voice their opinions and seek advice on how they can come through this recession stronger, more fiscally responsible and locally focused individuals.
The evening concluded with a wine reception, allowing all guests further opportunities to expand their business network, exchanging advice and connections with others who share their passion for success in a relaxed and positive environment.
The DCU Educational Trust would like to thank Citi Ireland for its generous sponsorship of the Citi Speaker Series. The Citi Series runs in coordination with the DCU Business School, offering an Enterprise Development Mentoring Programme to inspire DCU’s final year business students, with entrepreneurial creativity tempered by practical commercial realism. Through their participation in the Citi Series, students gain a unique opportunity to actively engage with senior business practitioners on a range of issues, enhancing their skills and their knowledge of what it takes to do business in the modern environment.
For more information on how you may become involved or attend future events, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust on (01) 700 8162 or email orla.holmes@dcu.ie
Ger McDonnell Endowed Memorial Scholarship
There are many examples of DCU students who have achieved amazing things after graduation. A notable case in point is Gerard McDonnell, a graduate of the DCU School of Electronic Engineering, a Limerick-born mountain climber who in August 2008 became the first Irish person to reach the summit of K2.
Tragically, during his descent of K2, Ger was involved in a fatal accident while attempting to save the lives of three fellow climbers. Ger and his fellow climbers lost their lives in the single worst accident in the history of K2 mountaineering. Ger is remembered by all who knew him as warm, loving, brave and, above all, heroic.
As a testament to Ger’s warmth of character, family, friends, classmates and the DCU School of Engineering have come together to establish a permanently endowed scholarship fund in his memory. The Ger McDonnell Memorial Access Scholarship Fund will be run as part of the University's Access Programme. Now in its 20th year, the DCU Access Scholarship Programme provides over 400 talented students with the opportunity of a third level education, which their circumstances would not otherwise allow.
We are delighted to report that over €52,000 has been raised for the Ger McDonnell Memorial Access Scholarship Fund with the first scholarship being awarded to a student studying Engineering at DCU this September. Because the Scholarship is endowed, a scholarship will be awarded in Ger’s name to a deserving DCU student each year in perpetuity.
"One of the reasons Ger was so well known and respected by so many people was because of his commitment to helping others", said Fiona McDonnell, a class mate of Ger's during his time in DCU. "It's fitting that he be remembered within DCU by an Access Scholarship that can help someone else", she adds.
Although the scholarship can in no way compensate for the loss of Ger, it is our hope that in time, the Scholarship will bring some small measure of comfort to all who knew Ger in the knowledge that his memory is encouraging the potential of bright young students at DCU. Dublin City University is deeply honoured to house this special tribute to Ger and we look forward to sharing news of the scholarship recipients in the years to come.
DCU Annual Fund Telethon June 2009 – Thank You!
The DCU Annual Fund Telethon 2009 took place from June 2nd- June 13th when DCU students called over 4000 graduates from The Hub Student Centre on campus. DCU graduates raised a fantastic €30,000 which amounts to 15 Access Scholarships for the coming academic year. The DCU Educational Trust would like to thank all graduates who contributed at the telethon. All proceeds from the DCU Annual Fund Telethon will go towards DCU Access Scholarships. If you were contacted during the recent telethon and would like to pay your pledge please go to http://www.dcu.ie/trust/gift.shtml. For more information on the DCU Educational Trust and the DCU Annual Fund please log onto http://www.dcu.ie/trust/index.shtml.
The 2009 DCU Leadership Circle Dinner Celebrates Leaders in Philanthropy
Friday 26 June 2009
The annual DCU Leadership Circle Dinner, hosted by the DCU President, Ferdinand von Prondzynski and the Board of Trustees, DCU Educational Trust was attended by over 120 supporters and friends of the University on Friday 26 June in the inviting surrounds of the 1838 Club Dining Room, Albert College. The guests, many representing leading Irish and US corporates as well as alumni and other individual donors had the pleasure of hearing from Atlantic Philanthropies Senior Vice President, Programmes, Colin McCrea on the significant role the foundation and its founder, Mr. Chuck Feeney, have played in developing third level education in modern Ireland. Mr. McCrea encouraged all guests, whether as companies or as individuals to be leaders in philanthropy and thanked those present for being part of DCU’s Leadership Circle and thereby creating life-transforming opportunities for so many students.
During the evening, four DCU Leadership Awards were presented to Brendan Hickey of Davy Hickey Properties; Ulster Bank; and to Professor Alan Smeaton of the DCU CLARITY research centre as well as a special recognition award to Cathy Holahan, former Chair of the DCU Alumni Council.
Brendan Hickey was presented with the award for his leadership gift to establish the DCU Citywest Community Outreach Programme, which brings hundreds of students from the Citywest community into greater exposure to educational opportunities. Ulster Bank were honored with the corporate Leadership Award for their longstanding support of the DCU Access Scholarship Programmne. The leadership award in research was presented to Professor Alan Smeaton for his world-leading work in the area of digital video processing. Finally, this year a special recognition award was presented to Cathy Holahan who recently handed over the Chair of the DCU Alumni Council. Cathy was recognised for her exceptional leadership of the DCU Alumni Council and the growth of the DCU Alumni programme during her tenure.
The DCU Leadership Circle is a community of supporters and friends of Dublin City University. Membership recognises and acknowledges the contributions made by donors whose generosity and vision help to bring Dublin City University to the next level of its development as a world-class centre of research and learning. To become a member, donors make annual contributions of €1,000 or more to Dublin City University.
The DCU Educational Trust is very pleased to acknowledge those organisations who generously sponsored items for the DCU Annual Fund raffle and goodie bag contents, as follows;
Ashville Media, Bill Cullen & Jackie Lavin (Muckross Park Hotel) Beeline Healthcare, Bewleys Ireland, Boots Ireland, Fragrances of Ireland, Glaxosmithkline, Haribo, Irish Distillers, Irish Rail, Panasonic, Toshiba and Unilever.
About DCU Educational Trust
The DCU Educational Trust is a registered charity (CHY 8960) established in 1988 to advance the development of Dublin City University. It is by building philanthropic relationships with friends, corporations, alumni, foundations and community groups that the DCU Educational Trust demonstrates the unique culture of Dublin City University and the power of higher education to change lives.
Women's Innovation Network at Dublin City University (WIN@DCU)
WIN@DCU is a bi-annual speaker series, part of the DCU strategic theme “Business and Innovation”, which invites powerful female business individuals to campus as role models for undergraduate students. This speaker series highlights the achievements of innovative women in business, science, communications and the humanities, while also providing a forum in which women can develop and foster professional and social contacts with others of diverse backgrounds and interests.
On Tuesday 12th May, DCU Educational Trust, Trustee, Mary Finan welcomed over 100 female business leaders and students to join her in the Helix to offer a unique perspective on some of the challenges faced by successful women in business across all sectors. The Lord Mayor, Councillor Eibhlin Byrne attended the opening reception and mingled amongst the guests before all assembled into the Gallery for the talks to begin.
The evening commenced with two keynote speeches from Mary Finan, Founding Partner of Wilson Hartnell Public Relations who delivered a talk on crisis communications for public relations and marketing and also from Margaret Sweeney, Chief Executive of Postbank who addressed the role of gender equality in the workplace, as she discussed ‘It Takes Two Voices – Equality Across the Divides’.
Guests then broke off into two interactive discussion break-out sessions where Sarah Dempsey Head of Sponsorship & Corporate Social Responsibility at Ulster Bank Ireland, offered guests advice on redesigning their marketing plan for survival in the new economy. The other session was led by DCU graduate Aoife O’Driscoll, Sales and Marketing Director for ElevEase, who gave her own personal insight into entrepreneurship with; ‘From an Acorn to a Tree – How to Grow that Small Business Idea’. The two break-out session hosts were supported by Ann Horan, General Manager, Ryan Academy and Dr. Sarah Ingle, Lecturer in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship at DCU Business School.
Since its initiation, the WIN@DCU programme has proven to be a tremendous success in connecting women in business and in particular affording undergraduate students the opportunity to meet and gain invaluable advice from some of Ireland’s leading professional women.
The evening ended with a wine reception allowing all guests further opportunities to expand their business network, exchanging advice and connections with others who share their passion for success in a relaxed and positive atmosphere.
The cross-faculty WIN@DCU is sponsored by the DCU Educational Trust. For more information on how you may become involved or attend future events, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust on (01) 700 8162 or email orla.holmes@dcu.ie
Why support Higher Education in Ireland?
Connect, the magazine from The Ireland Funds, reaches a unique audience of corporate, cultural and political leaders around the world. The magazine recently sat down with three remarkable Access Scholarship students from Dublin City University. The students shared their own individual stories and the difference that education is making in their lives. Patrick McDermott CEO of DCU Educational Trust also commented on the important question: Why should donors choose to support higher education in Ireland?
Studying Communications & Media at Third Level - Funding & Access
Studying Communications & Media at Third Level - Funding & Access
The recent public debate around funding for third level education reflects the considerable inequalities of access and participation that still exist in Ireland’s educational system. On Tuesday 10 March, Bill Cullen, Chairman, Glencullen Group and supporter of the DCU Access Programme hosted a breakfast briefing on Studying Communications & Media at Third Level – Funding & Access. This briefing specifically highlighted DCU’s groundbreaking Access Scholarship Programme and the fact that for many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds going to university is still a financial burden.
Over 60 professionals from the media, journalism and communications sector attended the briefing in Albert College and discussed the need to increase access to higher education for all young people. Guests also learned about the role the DCU Educational Trust plays in continuing DCU’s commitment to our Access Programme. The DCU Educational Trust supports students who receive a place on the DCU Access Programme with scholarships funded entirely by the private sector. Bill Cullen asked guests to consider both personal and corporate philanthropy as a tangible way of demonstrating their belief that all students should have the tools to fulfil their dreams and ambitions. He called on Aengus McClean, Vice President, AOL Europe to inform the group on their company’s support and why they chose this programme. This appeal was reinforced by guest speaker Caroline Morahan, broadcaster and DCU communications graduate on the importance of attending third level and the opportunities it provides for students entering into their chosen career paths.
DCU initially established the access programme over 20 years ago to address these inequalities by providing opportunities for a third level education to talented young student who circumstances would not otherwise allow them to attend university. Today, the DCU Access Programme is the largest of its kind in the country, with over 430 students from all over the country attending DCU. The DCU Access Programme works with students, their teachers and families from primary school onwards, encouraging students to develop positive attitude towards education and to see participation in higher education as a real possibility for them.
If you would like to receive further information on the DCU Access Programme or wish to attend a future briefing, please contact Orla Holmes, Director of Operations, DCU Educational Trust office at (353) 1-700-5467.
The Dell Access Achievement Awards for Secondary Schools take place at the Helix
Paul Delaney, Dell Ireland, presenting a student with his Dell Access Achievement Award
Almost 400 secondary school students received their Dell Access Achievement Awards and a special prize of a Dell “Santa Claus” USB memory stick at the prestigious Dell Access Achievement Awards ceremony on December 11th, in the Helix.
In front of a capacity crowd of over 1,200 fellow pupils, teachers and family members, the secondary school students from some 23 schools on Dublin’s Northside appeared for their 10 seconds of fame each on the same stage where “You’re a Star” is filmed.
The Access Achievement Awards are the biggest of their kind in Ireland and remain so thanks to the generous support this year of Dell Ireland. “We are delighted to support DCU and the Access Achievement Awards as they encourage young people to pursue the opportunities offered by third level education. Dell is committed to making technology more affordable and readily available to people and institutions everywhere so that they can take advantage of the tremendous economic and social benefits it offers.” said Paul Delaney, Head of Public Sector, Dell Ireland.
The Achievement Awards were introduced over 10 years ago by DCU’s Access Service to recognise, reward and encourage excellence in both the academic and extra mural aspects of a students school life. They are an important strand of the DCU Access Schools Programme, which fosters positive attitudes to education and encourages young people to remain at school and consider third level education as a viable option for them.
Teachers nominated their students for a Dell Access Achievement Award from a range of categories including academic learning, sports, arts & culture and community spirit. This year IT Skills was added as a new category, applying to students who have demonstrated a marked improvement in the use of technology to further their learning and enhance their knowledge and abilities in IT. “We are delighted that Dell Ireland has agreed to support this important initiative, which helps to inspire hundreds of young people by making them aware of the opportunities open to them through a third level education”, said Ita Tobin, Head of the Access Service. “I would also like to thank our colleagues in the DCU Educational Trust for securing such a wonderful sponsor for these Awards.”
The Achievement Awards have a lasting impact on these young students. In fact, a significant number of students who come to DCU under the DCU Access Programme from these participating schools have been a recipient of an Access Achievement Award in the past. To help inspire and reinforce the message that hard work and supports like the Access service really do lead to success, some of the 82 students who have successfully graduated from DCU this year under the DCU Access Programme, also attended on stage for the Dell Access Achievement Awards.
The DCU Educational Trust is a registered charity, which raises private support for the on-going development of DCU. Gifts to the Educational Trust are tax efficient - Charity No: CHY 8960. Donations can be made online at www.dcu.ie/trust/gift.shtml http://www.dcu.ie/trust/gift.shtml>
All gifts to the Educational Trust are tax efficient. For more information on the Trust call Ph: 7005467.DCU honours the memory of Ger McDonnell – heroic K2 climber
Ger McDonnell – heroic K2 climber
There are many examples of DCU students who go on to achieve amazing things after they graduate. A recent notable case in point is Gerard McDonnell, the Limerick-born mountain climber who in August 2008 became the first Irish person to reach the summit of K2. Gerard, a member of the 1993 graduating class of the University's Electronic Engineering degree programme, worked for Glacier Service inc. in Alaska, but was best known as one of Ireland's foremost mountaineers. His achievements in this arena were substantial. In 2003 he became the 4th Irishman ever to successfully scale Mount Everest and he was a team leader in an Antarctic expedition in honour of those other great Irish explorers, Shackelton and Crean. In 1999 he was honoured within the international mountain climbing community with the award of the prestigious Denali Pin for an act of heroism on Mount McKinley in Alaska where he led other climbers to safety at no small risk to himself.
Tragically, during his descent of K2, Ger was involved in a fatal accident while attempting to save the lives of three fellow climbers, in the single worst accident in the history of K2 mountaineering. Gerard is remembered by all who knew him as warm, loving, brave and above all heroic.
To celebrate his life and achievements, the Electronic Engineering class
