Day 1: Wednesday March 19th
Day 1: Wednesday March 19th
09:00 Registration/Coffee
09:30 Welcome and Introduction [Wicklow Hall 2]
10:00 Prof Anna Lawson - Universal Human Rights and Universal Design: Toward the Necessary Symbiosis [Keynote] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Prof Anna Lawson, University of Leeds
Prof Anna Lawson University of Leeds
Professor Anna Lawson, who is blind, co-directs the Centre for Law and Social Justice at the University of Leeds and co-directed the Centre for Disability Studies from 2015-2023. Her work focuses on disability equality and human rights at international, national and local levels with a particular focus on issues of equality, accessibility and inclusion.
She has led a range of multinational research projects on disability rights and justice, including a European Research Council Advanced Grant on Inclusive Public Space. Anna regularly works closely with inter-governmental organisations, national governments and local government. She is an active member of a range of disabled people’s organisations and the patron of the National Association of Disabled Staff Networks.
Anna is one of the founding editors of the new Hart Series on Disability, Law and Justice, and Fellow of the British Academy and the Academy of Social Sciences. In recognition of her work on disability equality, she was awarded the international Bob Hepple Memorial Prize by the Equal Rights Trust and Industrial Law Society in 2016.
10:40 Session 1: The Access UCC DS Employability Programme: A Model of Good Practice for Inclusive Recruitment [Workshop] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Shay Nolan, University College Cork
Shay Nolan University College Cork
Shay Nolan is the Access UCC Employability Project Manager and has 20 year’s experience working in disability support and careers consultancy. He has significant experience in supporting students with a disability into employment, and supporting employers to develop more inclusive recruitment practices. Shay initiated the DS Employability Programme in 2015 and has overseen its growth and development.
Elodie O’Donovan University College Cork
Elodie O’Donovan works in UCC to support students with disabilities progress from university to the workplace and to empower employers to create disability-inclusive work environments. Elodie also lectures on Disability Inclusion in UCC. She has 20 years’ experience in the biopharmaceutical industry where she was involved in disability inclusion. She is qualified in Disability Inclusion (UCC) and in Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace (MTU).
10:40 Session 2: Moving From Generic Reasonable Accommodations to Individualised, Specific Accommodations that Support Students’ Success on Practice Placement [Workshop] [Wicklow Hall 1]
- Julie Flanagan, National Rehabilitation Hospital
Julie Flanagan National Rehabilitation Hospital
Julie has worked as an Occupational Therapist in the National Rehabilitation Hospital for 18 years. She also worked in Vancouver, Canada as an OT in a private vocational clinic. For the past decade, her work focus has been two-fold:
1) A Senior OT in the Vocational service providing support to patients regarding return to work following brain injury and stroke, including people who are returning to third level education after brain injury or stroke. This work involves assessing the person’s potential to return to work and their readiness to do so, completing jobs demands analysis, providing recommendations and advice, supporting the person on the pathway of returning to work or looking for alternative work, employer liaison and follow-up.
2) Clinical Practice Tutor, responsible for supporting 24 OT students per year on placement at NRH, including those availing of reasonable accommodations on placement. Julie has a particular interest in using Motivational Interviewing techniques in her work with both students and patients.
11:20 Break
11:40 Session 1: The Calm Zone: Innovating Accessibility Through Student Leadership [Panel Discussion] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Michelle Clifford, University of Galway
Michelle Clifford University of Galway
Michelle Clifford is a third-year Bachelor of Science student in Social Science at the University of Galway, originally from Nenagh, Tipperary. Passionate about integrating research with advocacy to drive social change, she focuses on women’s health, mental well-being, social justice, and disability rights. As the Disability Rights Officer for the University of Galway Students’ Union (2024–2025), she works to improve accessibility, advocate for better support services, and inclusivity on campus.
Michelle also volunteers with Too Into You and SpunOut, contributing to initiatives that support young people’s well-being. She is particularly interested in health promotion and fostering a more inclusive society.
Miriam Collins University of Galway
Ms Miriam Collins is a third-year law and human rights student in the University of Galway. Her focus on human rights in her education combined with her lived experience as a disabled student in university has motivated her involvement in disability rights advocacy in the University of Galway and her interest in promoting universal design to overcome barriers to accessing higher education.
Miriam was involved with the university’s Neurodivergent Society from February 2024 to January 2025, first as an ordinary committee member and subsequently as the auditor of the society. She has represented the voice of neurodivergent students on the University’s Accessibility Forum advocating for greater sensory accessibility on campus and was heavily involved in the design and implementation of the Calm Zone during high stress periods and was a co-applicant for the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion fund to run the Calm Zone for the winter reading week and exam period. She is passionate about student staff collaboration and the incorporation of lived experience in service design and policy to improve accessibility for all students.
Niamh Griffin University of Galway
Niamh Griffin is a third-year Children’s Studies student at the University of Galway with a strong commitment to accessibility and inclusion. For two years she served as the Accessibility Officer for the University of Galway’s Neurodivergent Society. In this role, Niamh represented neurodivergent voices on the University’s Physical Accessibility Forum.
Passionate about fostering inclusive environments, Niamh has actively championed numerous initiatives to enhance accessibility in the University, including the Calm Zone project. She was heavily involved in the collaborative process of planning and implementing the project.
Niamh is a dedicated advocate for inclusive design and practice that is accessible to all students within the university.
Izzy Tiernan University of Galway
Izzy Tiernan is the former Vice President for Welfare and Equality in University of Galway Students Union 2023/24 and has had a keen interest in accessibility since they were diagnosed as neurodivergent five years ago. They helped create, design and execute University of Galway's new Calm Zone, and have worked as an advocate on behalf of students with disabilities, as well as themself. They are excited and thrilled to share their perspective on being neurodivergent in the workplace, college and in an activist role, as well as learning from experts in the field of accessibility. For Izzy, intersectionality, lived experience and empathy are the most important qualities to bring to any discussion around disability.
Erica Meslin Education Manager, AHEAD
Erica Meslin is the Education Manager with AHEAD. She is an experienced leader in the inclusion field bringing in a diverse background of working with marginalized and disadvantaged communities internationally. Erica is passionate about accessibility and inclusion in education settings and is happy to play a key role with AHEAD’s education team.
11:40 Session 2: Transform EDU - Employer Collaboration to Promote Graduate Employability [Workshop] [Meeting 1]
- Dr Aiden Carthy, TU Dublin
Dr Aiden Carthy TU Dublin
Aiden is a psychologist and educator with over 25 years’ experience working in the education sector. His dual competencies in research and teaching enable him to contribute significantly to the education sector both nationally and internationally. His primary area of research expertise is wellbeing, with a particular focus on conducting research that focuses on wellbeing in educational contexts. Aiden is particularly interested in research that is beneficent, that focuses on working with marginalised and vulnerable populations and that adopts a participatory approach. Aiden founded and directs The Research Centre For Psychology, Education and Emotional Intelligence (PEEI) at TU Dublin, which was officially launched in 2018.
Amanda Dixon (BBS, MBS) TU Dublin
Amanda Dixon (BBS, MBS) is a lecturer in the School of Global Business and lectures on multiple cross Faculty programmes in the Business Regulatory space. Amanda is also Operations Lead on the Student Transformative Learning Record (STLR) project.
Currently, Amanda delivers modules on the Bachelor of Business (Honours) in International Business programme, the Bachelor of Business (Honours) in Information Technology programme and the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Digital Marketing programme.
In her capacity as an operations lead on the Student Transformative Learning Record (STLR) team, Amanda presented at the Valuing Ireland’s Teaching and Learning Event and contributed to the first cross faculty Teaching and Learning Publication in the Faculty of Business and presented at the 13th Annual Transformative Learning Conference in Oklahoma City.
Amanda is a member of the following entities TU Dublin’s Academic Council, the Authentic Assessment Community of Practice (TU Dublin) and the Rethinking Assessment Community of Practice (QQI).
Her research interests include authentic assessment, transformative learning and sustainability.
12:30 Session 1: Pathways to Employment [Lightning Sessions] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Lightning 1.1: Pathways to the Professions - a model to improve access and inclusion for early career success
Kathie Orr, University College Dublin
Kathie Orr University College Dublin
UCD Access and Lifelong Learning.
Pathways to the Professions Coordinator.
Kathie has worked in Further and Higher Education since 2012. She worked as an instructional designer on the development of the HEA National Forum AHEAD UCD Digital Badge in Universal Design Beyond the Classroom and is currently working on the Pathways to the Professions project.
Kathie’s areas of interest include Universal Design for Learning and fostering inclusion through accessible design.
- Lightning 1.2: The Cuimsiú Programme: A WorkAbility: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme
Nicole Lonican, Cuimsiú
Nicole Lonican Cuimsiú
Nicole Lonican is the Cuimsiú Programme Coordinator with Fast Track into Information Technology (FIT).
Nicole is an ADHDer and has a background in law, disability advocacy, coproduction and capacity building.
Cuimsiú (Kwim-shoo) means inclusion.
The Cuimsiú programme is a Workability: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme co-financed by the EU Employment, Inclusion, Skills, and Training Programme (EIST) 2021-2027 and the Department of Social Protection (DSP).
The programme is dedicated to supporting neurodivergent and disabled people on a path to tech employment that works for them, through training and 1:1 mentor support. The Cuimsiú Team also supports employers in their own efforts to create inclusive workplaces.
- Lightning 1.3: The Role of University in Preparing Students with Special Needs for Future Work
Katarzyna Jach, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Poland
Katarzyna Jach Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Poland
Katarzyna Jach is the Rector’s Plenipotentiary for Persons with Disabilities at Wroclaw University of Science and Technology (Wroclaw Tech), Poland. She is an associate professor and a head of Laboratory of Ergonomics at the Faculty of Management at Wroclaw Tech. She has been specializing in different ways of including people with special needs into work and educational environment.
- Lightning 1.4: MTU’s Ready Steady Work (RSW): A Framework for Developing Student Employability Skills
Olga Mitchell, Munster Technological University
Olga Mitchell Munster Technological University
Olga is a Careers Advisor in MTU Careers Service, who firmly believes that a career should energise, fill with inspiration, fire curiosity, while matching with personal strengths, interests and values. She has an MA in Applied Psychology (GC) from UCC , and a Professional Diploma in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy(IICP), as well as previous qualifications in science and engineering. Through her therapeutic counselling training she is particularly invested in strengthening student's self awareness and reflective practice for growth. She is interested and involved in supporting all abilities, in recognising the amazing strength diversity offers any organisation. Previous careers in laboratory and engineering roles.
12:30 Session 2: Using Photovoice as a Method to Prepare Students with Intellectual Disabilities in Third-Level Education for Employment [Workshop] [Meeting 1]
- Dr Catherine Kelly Mason, South East Technological University
Dr Catherine Kelly Mason South East Technological University
Dr Catherine Kelly Mason is a lecturer in the Department of Nursing and Healthcare in South East Technological University, Waterford campus. She is the course leader for the Certificate in Personal Development which is a Higher Education programme for Students with Intellectual Disabilities. Her work history charts a 30-year career as a Registered Nurse Intellectual Disability and as such she has worked in front, middle and senior management positions in a number of community and voluntary intellectual disability organisations. Formerly the deputy CEO of Walk, Catherine has been instrumental in developing a number of award winning, groundbreaking programmes which provide equal pathways for people with intellectual disability into training, education and employment within the public, civil and private sector. She is motivated and driven by an equality and human rights agenda.
Dr Sara Kennedy South East Technological University
Dr Sara Kennedy is Head of Department of Nursing and Health Care. Sara pioneered the Certificate in Personal Development, a groundbreaking third level Higher Education programme designed for students with intellectual disabilities. The initiative was her visionary idea, designed to create inclusive educational opportunities for prospective students whom, are marginalized, or face systemic barriers to accessing quality education.
Sara's research background is in student empowerment and socialisation in clinical environment. Sara has also an interest in leadership and management and provision of care to marginalised groups.
Sara is a General and Children's nurse with many years clinical experience in children's nursing. During her time as a lecturer Sara has developed several programmes in Management and Leadership, Summer School Programmes and an International MSc. Sara collaborates with a variety of international partners on research and education both in Europe and America.
13:10 Lunch
14:10 Game On: Empowering Students Through Esports for Career Readiness [Workshop] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Ronan Fox, National Learning Network
Ronan Fox National Learning Network
Ronan Fox is a Senior Digital Officer at the National Learning Network (NLN), driving engagement through tools like Minecraft Education, Canva, podcasting, and video editing. As a Microsoft Innovative Educator (MIE) Expert, he delivers Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) sessions, training instructors on Microsoft applications and creative technologies to enhance teaching.
Eimear O'Driscoll National Learning Network
Eimear O’Driscoll, E-Learning Manager at the National Learning Network (NLN), leads digital transformation by driving the development of accessible online courses and technology-enhanced learning strategies. Her work centres on innovation, accessibility, and inclusivity, creating impactful learning experiences that empower students and support instructors.
14:10 ALTITUDE Charter Adoption Clinic – Drop in to get advice on embedding universal design in your ETB/HEI [Meeting 2]
15:00 Session 1: Students with Disabilities Advisory Group [Panel Discussion] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Joseph McLoughlin,
Joseph McLoughlin
Joseph McLoughlin is a first-year engineering student at Dublin City University (DCU). He's passionate about spreading awareness about disabilities and making sure that their voices are heard. This passion stems from his own experiences with Autism, Narcolepsy, and ADHD. Joseph completed a PLC programme prior to starting at DCU, specifically Preliminary Engineering in Coláiste Dhúlaigh. This means that he has experience in both Further and Higher education. He has had the pleasure of knowing a wide range of people, both with and without disabilities. This has helped him understand the perspectives of both groups. Joseph believes that many of the difficulties faced by those with disabilities can be addressed through greater awareness of their experiences and a problem-solving attitude that focuses on removing barriers faced by people with disabilities in their daily lives.
Luna Fleming
Luna Fleming is an activist, particularly for disability but also for mental health, queer rights and gender equality. They are currently studying Digital Humanities and Information Technology in UCC. This is their second year on the advisory group. The first year gave them several prestigious opportunities to have their voice on disability in education heard, and it greatly developed their confidence when it comes to activism. Their main area of interest is on neurodiversity as they are autistic and dyspraxic. They have also done lots of campaigning surrounding services for people with eating disorders, including organising protests and speaking in the Dáil. Currently in UCC, they are on the neurodiversity society committee, they are the disability rights representative for the students union and are an access ambassador, meaning they help shape services offered to people who come in through alternative entry routes and/or have a disability. They look forward to contributing to the advisory group even more this year as co-chair.
Cara Clarke TUD Graduate
Cara has just finished their social care degree in TU Dublin. They
are autistic and work supporting adults with disabilities. Cara was
part of the 2024/2025 Students with Disabilities Advisory Group with
AHEAD and AMLÉ and is passionate about the role of lived experience in disability justice.Cal De Nicolas Audoin Advisory Group member
Cal De Nicolas is a 2nd year BSc Psychology student at Maynooth University, and they are autistic. As an autistic individual they have experienced first hand the issues that many neurodivergent and disabled people face, this has given them a passion for making spaces more accessible and inclusive. Cal is the undergraduate academic representative of Equality Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) on the psychology EDI panel at Maynooth University and was an academic representative for their course during first year. Therefore they are familiar with the issues faced by students with disabilities and eager to address them.
15:00 Session 2: Options Abound [Lightning Sessions] [Meeting 1]
- The Student Transformative Learning Record (STLR)
- Empower Employment: AsIAm Employment Programme
Mairéad McHale, AsIAm
Mairéad McHale AsIAm
Mairéad is an Employment Officer with AsIAm. In this role, she supports Autistic adults seeking
employment, and potential employers engaging with Autistic talent. In addition, Mairéad lectures
in Inclusive Education, Critical Disability Studies, and Equality Studies.
- MyCareerPath Supports Inclusive Employability Module for all students
Bridie Killoran, Atlantic Technological University
Bridie Killoran Atlantic Technological University
ATU Career and Learning Pathways Manager (HCI HigherEd 4.0 Project) managing the MyCareerPath Service for Careers and Learning Pathways, including Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for people in the workplace. Using an innovative digital learning Career Development Platform, MyCareerPath, and a well-established employability framework, ATU have set out the ways in which we give opportunities to students to develop their employability skills.
Bridie has over 20 years’ experience of managing, developing and delivering excellent outcomes for the careers advisory and guidance services in higher education.
Sally Reidy Atlantic Technological University
Sally Reidy has been lecturing at Atlantic Technological University (formally Galway Mayo Institute of Technology) since 2000 and recently completed a Master of Arts in Guidance Counselling. Lately she is focused on enhancing students' employability skills through delivering "The Next Step" employability module.
15:45 Storytelling [Lightning Sessions] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Lightning 2.1: Learner Spotlight
Rosalind Threadgold, Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB)
Rosalind Threadgold Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB)
My current role involves supporting people with disabilities and people from minority or disadvantaged backgrounds access our Further Education and Training provision and encompasses supporting WWETB whole organization implementation of the Human Rights Public Sector Duty and Equality/ Disability Legislation and leading in initiatives that promote and celebrate Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and provide Equity for all learners in FET.
Sarah Lavan Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB)
Sarah Lavan is an Adult Education Officer with Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB). Her work is focused on the areas of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Access and Learner Supports. Sarah has worked in Adult and Community Education for over 20 years, and is interested in equality, diversity, culture, literacy, and transformative education. She holds a MA in Adult & Community Education from NUI Maynooth, an MA in Poetry Studies from the Irish Centre for Poetry Studies, Mater Dei, and a post graduate Diploma in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion with University of Limerick.
- Lightning 2.2: Tertiary Education as Accessible Workplaces
Connor Duignan, Innopharma Education
Connor Duignan Innopharma Education
Connor Duignan is a computer scientist by training and currently works as a technical software developer and project lead in Innopharma education. He has a keen interest in education, teaching, and inclusion.
- Lightning 2.3: Supporting Your Neurodivergent Colleagues from the Perspective of an Autistic Person
Sarah Pattison, Munster Technological University
Sarah Pattison Munster Technological University
Sarah Pattison is an Instructional Designer in the Technology Enhanced Learning department of Munster Technological University, who is passionate about inclusion and creating engaging learning materials.
- Lightning 2.4: Psychological Adjustment and Educational Support: Experiences of Students with Dyslexia
Dr Ciara Egan, University of Galway
Dr Ciara Egan University of Galway
Dr Ciara Egan is a lecturer in the School of Psychology at the University of Galway. Prior to her appointment she completed her PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience at Bangor University. She is currently Co-Director of the MSc in Clinical Neuroscience, and her research focuses on neurodiversity, the cognitive neuroscience of language, and open science. She is passionate about educational inclusion in her research and teaching.
Caoimhe O’ Malley Dyslexia Ireland
Caoimhe O’Malley is the Senior Adult Dyslexia Coordinator with Dyslexia Ireland. She is responsible for the development of dyslexia supports for adults including the development of training to be delivered across the Adult Education sector (including FE, HE and Community Education) and the Employment/Workplace sector. Prior to joining Dyslexia Ireland, Caoimhe worked in education, her main focus being the non-traditional student, ensuring equal access to education for all and that the correct supports are in place so that all students can reach their full potential and enjoy their educational journey.
16:15 Celebrating 20 Years of the WAM Programme
16:30 Drinks Reception
Day 2: Thursday March 20th
Day 2: Thursday March 20th
09:30 Welcome and Introduction [Wicklow Hall 2]
10:00 Dr Mary Quirke - Sink or Swim? Let’s Build a Better Boat for Learners in Transition [Keynote] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Dr. Mary Quirke, Guidance Specialist
Dr. Mary Quirke Guidance Specialist
Dr Mary Quirke is a researcher, educator, and advocate with a deep commitment to inclusive education, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and equitable career and work transitions. With a PhD from Trinity College Dublin (TCD), her research explores learner voice, inclusive learning, career transitions, and inclusive pathways into employment, particularly for individuals with disabilities.
Mary’s career spans policy, practice, and research, with extensive experience in Further and Higher Education, vocational training, and workplace inclusion. As Assistant Director of AHEAD, she played a pivotal role in shaping Willing, Able and Mentoring (WAM), a pioneering employment initiative supporting graduates with disabilities. She has also contributed to national and European-level projects promoting inclusive learning and employment strategies.
Currently a Research Fellow at TCD, Mary has led multiple SOLAS-commissioned studies, including national research on specialist training provision for people with disabilities and ESOL learning in Ireland, engaging with learners and their voice. She actively collaborates with educators, policymakers, and advocacy groups to ensure evidence-based, learner-centred approaches to education and career development.
A dynamic speaker and champion of Universal Design for Guidance (UDG), Mary’s work emphasises the importance of designing for diversity from the outset, highlighting the role we all can play. Her expertise in lifelong learning, disability inclusion, and policy development continues to shape more accessible and sustainable pathways for all learners.
At AHEAD 2025, Mary will deliver a keynote on navigating transitions and adopting a UDL attitude, drawing from her recently published book with Routledge “Adopting a UDL attitude within Academia”. Dr. Quirke will offer insights from research, practice, and real-world case studies. Expect an engaging, thought-provoking session with plenty of humour, real-life examples, and practical takeaways!
10:40 Session 1: Research to Bridge the Gap [Lightning Sessions] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Lightning 1.1 Energy Accounting
Clare Squires, De Montfort University
Clare Squires De Montfort University
I have worked with students with Autism for many years in further and higher education. I am the Disability Officer (Autism) at De Montfort University. Prior to this, I was the Autistic Spectrum Coordinator at Moulton College and I had worked in primary and secondary schools as a SENCO and Deputy Headteacher. I have two children who are at University with a diagnosis of Autism.
Tabitha Biller De Montfort University
Hi, I’m Tabitha Biller. I work as an Autism Mentor in De Montfort University’s Autism Team. Our team supports 570 autistic students
- Lightning 1.2 From Education to Employment: Turning Barriers into Opportunities
Dr Eng. Marta Skierniewska, Warsaw University of Technology
Dr Eng. Marta Skierniewska Warsaw University of Technology
Dr Eng. Marta Skierniewska MBA is a Researcher and Expert in inclusive education and universal
design at the Warsaw University of Technology. Her work focuses on accessibility in higher
education, digital cities, assistive technologies, and e-inclusion. She has conducted studies on
education for students with disabilities and WCAG-compliant software accessibility.
- Lightning 1.3 Brain in Hand Support: Facilitating Transition and Retention within Education through to the Workplace
Sarah Hutchings, Brain in Hand
Sarah Hutchings Brain in Hand
Sarah is the Head of Higher Education at Brain in Hand, where she manages partnerships and drives business development across the education sector and professional environments. With over 18 years of experience in education and support provisions for the workplace, she is dedicated to helping individuals overcome barriers to learning and employment. Sarah is passionate about enhancing personal autonomy and independence, firmly believing that technology with a human face can make a significant impact in achieving these goals
- Lightning 1.4 Experiences of Students with Dyslexia in Higher Education on the Use of Technology and AI
Cathal O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland and part-time PhD student in UCD
Cathal O’Connor Microsoft Ireland and part-time PhD student in UCD
Cathal O’Connor is a Principal Data Scientist with 15 years at Microsoft and 25+ years industry experience. Cathal earned an honours bachelor's degree in computer engineering from Trinity College Dublin, and a master's degree in business administration (MBA) from FAU. Cathal is currently pursuing a PhD part-time in inclusive learning using intelligent technologies at UCD under the supervision of Assistant Professor Dr. Anthony Cronin.
10:40 Session 2: Building Skills, Confidence and Community Through Inclusive Peer Learning [Workshop] [Wicklow Hall 1]
- Joe Kennedy, CÉIM
Joe Kennedy CÉIM
I am the Graduate Intern for the CÉIM Shared Learning programme and a former CÉIM leader of 2 years in psychology. After graduating from my undergraduate degree, I undertook a Master's in Consumer Psychology in University of Galway before joining the CÉIM team in my full-time role. As the Graduate Intern, my main areas of work are in social media and website management, content creation, and leader coaching. I have recently completed a UDL Badge and have been focusing on the accessibility and ease of use of social media content, particularly for those who are visually impaired, through the integration of accessibility features and improvements where possible.
Kerry Lawless CÉIM
I am the Engagement Coordinator for the CÉIM Shared Learning programme and a former CÉIM leader of 2 years in Sociology and Political Studies. After graduating from University of Galway with a BA with Human Rights, I undertook a Master's in International Relations in DCU before returning to Galway to join the CÉIM team in my full-time role. As the Engagement Coordinator, my main areas of work are in leader coaching, training, idea development within CEIM sessions and the programme, and marketing. I have recently completed a UDL Badge and over the last year have been focusing heavily on the accessibility of peer learning and how the programme can support neurodivergent students to settle into university, build skills, and excel in their course. For information on our inclusivity initiatives check out our website.
11:20 Break
11:40 Session 1: UDL to Bridge the Gap [Lightning Sessions] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Lightning 2.1 Bridging Universal Design for Learning into Clinical Practice Environments
Dr John Gilmore, University College Dublin
Dr John Gilmore University College Dublin
Dr. John Gilmore is Assistant Professor and Head of Subject for Adult General Nursing at the UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Systems. His scholarly work centres on the intersections of health and social justice, with a particular focus on sexual and gender minority health. As a UCD University for All Faculty Partner, John has been instrumental in advancing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) training at both local and national levels, and he has published and presented extensively on creating inclusive pedagogies in nursing education. As a Fulbright scholar, he has held prestigious visiting positions at the University of California, San Francisco, Columbia University, and also at the University of Huddersfield. In addition to his academic contributions, John serves as Chairperson of Léargas, Ireland’s National Agency for international programmes in education, training, and youth.
Dr Freda Browne University College Dublin
Dr Freda Browne is an Assistant Professor in UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems. She holds a Doctorate in Nursing, a MSc in Clinical Practice and a Grad Cert in Nurse Education. Freda is the Programme Director for the BSc in General Nursing and the MSc/Grad Cert in Health Professional’s Education. She is Module Co-Ordinator for and teaches across several undergraduate and postgraduate modules.
Freda is a member of the UCD University for All Faculty Partnership Programme and facilitates training on Universal Design for Learning both in UCD and for national programmes in association with AHEAD. Freda is also a member of UCD Widening Participation Committee.
- Lightning 2.2 Future Proofing
Clare Squires, De Montfort University Adam Davison, De Montfort University
Adam Davison De Montfort University
I’m Adam Davison I am the Lead Autism Mentor at De Montfort University in Leicester. DMU’s Autism Team support 570 autistic students.
- Lightning 2.3 Widening Inclusion of Disability in Employment (WIDE) - How Do We Do It?
Catherine Murray, Research Administrative Assistant, AHEAD
Catherine Murray Research Administrative Assistant, AHEAD
Catherine Murray is the co-researcher of the WIDE Framework in AHEAD, working closely with Dara Ryder. She is an autistic researcher, dedicated to human rights for people with disabilities, inclusive employment for disabled people, autistic mental health understanding and supports, and universal design. She has been involved in seven research projects since 2014 across Ireland, Northern Ireland, England and Denmark. Catherine's previous research focused on autistic mental health, intellectual disability, higher education, and employment. Catherine has lectured in Universal Design at Trinity College Dublin and Early Childhood Studies at Stranmillis University College, following her primary school and special education teaching career spanning three countries.
Dara Ryder CEO, AHEAD
Dara Ryder is Chief Executive Officer of AHEAD, having previously managed AHEAD’s digital presence and developed a suite of online CPD programmes relating to inclusive practice in his role as Digital Media and eLearning Manager there.
After graduating from Queens University in 2005, Dara joined Dun Laoghaire College of Further Education as a lecturer, where he became interested in inclusive education when working first-hand with students with disabilities in his classroom. When the opportunity arose in 2008, he joined AHEAD where he has been working ever since on creating inclusive environments in education and employment for people with disabilities.
- Lightning 2.4 Disability Culture Matters on Think UDL
Lillian Nave, Appalachian State University
Lillian Nave Appalachian State University
Lillian Nave is the Faculty and Educational Development Specialist for AppState’s Hickory campus in North Carolina. A former art historian, Lillian now teaches First Year Seminar courses in Intercultural Competence and has connected her AppState students virtually with students in Europe and Asia. She is the creator and host of the Think UDL podcast which has over 100,000 global downloads. Through the podcast, she interviews practitioners around the world who create more equitable, accessible, and engaging learning environments for their students. She enjoys spreading the word about UDL through her scholarly articles on faculty development, inclusive pedagogy and UDL, and through speaking engagements at international conferences and invited talks at universities all throughout the USA.
Jill Weidknecht Van Horne Appalachian State University
Jill Weidknecht Van Horne, LCMHCS, NCPSC, RPTS, EAGALA certified- Is the Director of the Professional School Counseling program and Associate Professor at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC (USA). Her 25+ years of experience as a school counselor and as a licensed clinical mental health counselor, focus on eliminating the barriers to (student) learning through experiential and multisensory approaches. This includes incorporating multisensory and experiential approaches in her work such as equine assisted therapy, play therapy, and creative & expressive arts, through a lens that utilizes the principles of Universal Design for Learning. She is the recipient of the European Branch of the American Counseling Association’s International Service Award and Mentor of the Year for Appalachian State University’s Reich College of Education. Much of her work is inspired by her own learning differences, navigating a path, and advocating for ways that made sense to her. She is currently the Past President of the European Branch of the American Counseling Association and former Vice President of the North Carolina Association for Play Therapy.
- Lightning 2.5 A Practice Reflection on a Partnership Between a University and WAM Programme- When the University is the Learner
Aileen Kennedy, Assistant Registrar and Head of Student Engagement, Munster Technological University
Aileen Kennedy Assistant Registrar and Head of Student Engagement, Munster Technological University
Aileen Kennedy, BSoc.Sc, MA Social Work
Aileen is Assistant Registrar and Head of Student Engagement (with responsibility for Teaching and Learning); Chairperson of the MTU Universal Design Framework Implementation Steering Committee and PATH 4 Lead (supporting inclusive, universally designed higher education environments) at Munster Technological University (MTU).
Prior to this within MTU Aileen was lecturer in the Department of Social Sciences, Head of Department of Health and Leisure Studies and Vice President of Academic Affairs and Registrar. Aileen has 30 years applied professional practice experience in settings outside of education (as a social worker) and within Higher Education. Aileen is focused on the centrality of culture, strategy and policy in the creation of a university community where all can flourish and reach their full potential. Aileen believes in a quality learning centred education, based on inclusion and equity of access and participation for all.
Margaret Finch Munster Technological University
Margaret Finch, BA Psych, MA Research Psychology, PG Dip in Crim Psych, PG Dip Statistics, SFHEA.
Margaret is MTU Universal Design Commitment Officer and MTU Lead- Teaching and Learning and Student Engagement within the Assistant Registrar and Head of Student Engagement (and Teaching and Learning) Office at Munster Technological University (MTU)
Margaret has taught and worked for over 30 years in inclusion and tertiary education sectors to widen access and equity of those pushed to the margins in society. Margaret believes that we are in exciting times in tertiary education that show commitment to advancing quality education for all where working collaboratively can create sustainable culture and operational changes that create meaningful inclusion and belonging in an
accountable way in tertiary education to support development of a stronger and more resilient society and economy where all can reach their potential.
11:40 Session 2: Preparation and Performance - Supporting Students with Intellectual Disabilities in Internships [Workshop] [Meeting 1]
- Emer Murphy, TCPID, Trinity College Dublin
Emer Murphy TCPID, Trinity College Dublin
Emer Murphy is an Occupational Therapist working in the Trinity Centre for People with Intellectual Disabilities in the School of Education, Trinity College Dublin.
The primary aim of Occupational Therapy is to facilitate people to participate in meaningful occupations. These are the daily activities that people want and need to do. Emer supports students and graduates to participate in college life and internships by supporting them to learn and develop skills, by adapting activities or materials or by adapting environments. Emer works primarily with graduates and employers who participate in the internship programmes.
Emer has an Honours Degree and a Masters Degree in Occupational Therapy. She is registered with Coru and is a member of the Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland (AOTI). Emer has extensive clinical experience both in Ireland and abroad, primarily working with people with intellectual disabilities.
Barbara Ringwood TCPID, Trinity College Dublin
Barbara Ringwood is a Senior Occupational Therapist in the Trinity Centre for People with Intellectual Disabilities in the School of Education, Trinity College Dublin. Barbara works with students transitioning and engaging in university life including the development of skills required to navigate university life and an understanding of student expectations and use of student spaces. She oversees two modules on the programme which focus on personal development and preparing for transition and supports the teaching team through guidance and support on inclusive practices in the classroom.
Marie Devitt TCPID, Trinity College Dublin
Marie Devitt is the Business Partnerships Manager in the Trinity Centre for People with Intellectual Disabilities in the School of Education, Trinity College Dublin. Marie is responsible for building the TCPID Business Partners Network and securing both financial and practical support from the business community for the TCPID. She works closely with the TCPID Business Partners to develop work placements, paid internships and employment opportunities for students and graduates of the programme.
Marie has an honours degree in French and Italian from University College Dublin and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Business Studies from the Michael Smurfit Graduate School of Business. Marie brings over 20 years of business experience to the Business Partnerships Manager role, primarily in the areas of business development, strategic planning, product development, marketing and customer relationship management.
11:40 ALTITUDE Charter Adoption Clinic – Drop in to get advice on embedding universal design in your ETB/HEI [Meeting 2]
12:30 Exploring Gaps and Opportunities in Supporting Postgraduates and Early Career Researchers with Disabilities, hosted by LaunchPad [Panel Discussion] [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Alexa MacDermot, University College Dublin
Alexa MacDermot University College Dublin
Alexa is a SUSI PhD student in the School of Social Policy, Social Work, and Social Justice in University College Dublin. Her research is on neurodivergent women's experiences of identity, social relations, and employment in Ireland. She is on the Board of Directors for AHEAD Ireland, and established UCD's first Neurodiversity Collective social group for students. Alexa is a late-assessed autistic researcher and wishes to promote neurodiversity visibility and acceptance in academia.
Dr. Declan Reilly Disability Officer, Trinity College Dublin
Declan has been working as a disability officer in Trinity since 2005. Declan has a BA in Psychoanalytic Studies and an MA in Psychotherapy. He completed the Post Graduate Diploma in Education (Disability Needs Assessment) at Trinity and the Certificate of Competence in Educational Testing (BPS). Declan produced a Guide for Students with Disabilities on Placement to support students with disabilities on professional courses. In 2017, Declan completed a PhD in the School of Education exploring if reasonable accommodations provided to third level students with disabilities succeed in removing barriers and impact on the student experience.
13:00 Lunch
14:00 Empowering Employment – An Overview of AHEAD’s WAM Programme and GetAHEAD Initiative [Wicklow Hall 2]
- Banba Fitzgerald, AHEAD- GetAHEAD Officer
Banba Fitzgerald AHEAD- GetAHEAD Officer
Banba Fitzgerald – GetAHEAD Officer, AHEAD
Banba Fitzgerald holds two first class honours degrees from University College Dublin including a BSc in Science and an MSc in Business & Biotherapeutics. She is very passionate about the healthcare and disability sectors and has personal experience with hidden disabilities. Her background has largely been in the pharmaceutical and medical communications industries with experience in a variety of areas including project and event management. At present, Banba is currently working in AHEAD as GetAHEAD Officer and is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the disability community.
Philip Carroll AHEAD- WAM Project Officer
Philip joined the AHEAD team in 2022 and is working on The Willing Able Mentoring (WAM) Programme which aims to promote access to the employment for graduates with disabilities and build the capacity of employers to integrate disability into the mainstream workplace. Not only is Philip working on the WAM Programme, but he is also a former participant of the WAM Programme in 2018. Philip strives to use this unique perspective of the challenges faced by graduates with disabilities in the workplace, to offer support and guidance as they begin their respective careers.
ahead conference supported by solas & the hea
With thanks to SOLAS and the Higher Education Authority who provide core funding for AHEAD's activities promoting inclusion in the tertiary education: