‘Strive to make a difference’: University of Limerick graduates celebrate summer ceremony

University of Limerick graduates celebrate summer ceremony. Pictured are Bachelors of Medicine L-R Cathy Phelan, Kilkenny, Ashley Costello, Crecora Co Limerick and Eimear Ryan, South Circular Road Limerick. Pic Arthur Ellis.

The sun shone on hundreds of University of Limerick graduates at summer conferring ceremonies this Tuesday, June 13

More than 600 students were conferred among the 2023 graduating class of doctors and health professionals, allied health professionals, school principal leaders, science and engineering students, adult learners across several disciplines, plus graduates from arts, humanities and social sciences and business.

Included among the cohort of students were more than 130 newly minted doctors graduating from the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at UL’s School of Medicine.

As part of the degree awarding ceremony this Tuesday morning, the President’s Medal was awarded posthumously to John E Moloney, the dedicated and passionate volunteer Chairman of the Limerick University Project Committee, which was behind the campaign to establish a university in Limerick from 1959 onwards.

John E Moloney passed away in 1989, three months after university status was bestowed on the institution. The medal was received by members of his family and continues the proud tradition of recognising those in the community who gave their service so generously to the benefit of UL.

President of UL Professor Kerstin Mey said she was “very happy to mark John’s contribution to the University”.

What a fantastic day!

Congratulations to the more than 600 new UL alumni who graduated today

We're incredibly proud to celebrate all your successes with you, your families, and your friendshttps://t.co/z4Zd3FDoBE#StudyatUL pic.twitter.com/1EDKXQPIFY— University Of Limerick (@UL) June 13, 2023

Speaking to the wider group of more than 600 graduates who now join a global community of over 120,000 UL alumni, Professor Mey said: “I would like to acknowledge the incredible amount of talent and determination that is here before us in the 2023 graduating class.

“As President of this innovative and dynamic University, I am delighted to stand here today filled with pride and admiration for each and every one of you.

“Today marks a significant milestone in your journey—one that represents countless hours of dedication, perseverance, and intellectual growth. As you receive your awards, remember that this moment is not an endpoint but a beginning—a stepping-stone toward a future filled with endless possibilities.

“I know that a number of you have returned to education from your specific fields of industry and within that time you have managed to juggle everyday work and family life while pursuing an award of academic achievement.

“Today is a day of recognition and achievement and the only piece of advice I will offer is to stay curious. Keep questioning, stay connected and leave yourself open to new areas of discovery.

“I want you to leave this institution with full knowledge that here at UL we are further developing our ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Caring for our institutional culture and advancing equality, diversity and inclusion amongst our entire community plays a central part.

“I am exceptionally proud of the achievement of this University and indeed the recognition that our talented and committed students and staff achieve nationally and internationally.

“Embrace the journey ahead, remain connected and committed to continuous learning, follow your passion, and strive to make a difference. The world awaits your brilliance, and I have no doubt that you will go on to achieve great things,” Professor Mey added.

Read similar stories here.
find out more here.