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Dr Kathryn Hayes has been announced as the recipient of the UL Excellence in Teaching Award (Individual) for 2024/25.

, Associate Professor at the School of English, Irish, and Communication and Course Director of the BA in Journalism and Digital Communications, was hailed by the award panel as “a transformative educator whose work has a valuable impact on students”.

Originally from Ashbrook, Ennis Road, and now living in Monaleen, Dr Hayes was presented with the award at UL’s autumn graduations – a double celebration as she watched the Journalism and Digital Communications class of 2025 being conferred with their degrees.

Dr Hayes was joined on the special occasion by her family – husband David O’Carroll, their sons Daithí, Seán and Barry, and her father Barry Hayes, who watched on proudly as she received the honour.

A seasoned journalist and editor with over two decades of experience in the media industry, Dr Hayes began her career at the Limerick Leader before taking the helm as news editor at the Evening Echo. She went on to work as a freelance journalist for several years, contributing to high-profile publications and media outlets including RTÉ, The Irish Times and the Irish Independent; before taking up her role in UL in 2013, earning her PhD in 2023.

The judges praised Dr Hayes’ ‘ability to bridge industry and practice [to create] an immersive learning environment that equips students with essential employability skills’, and she was also recognised for her ‘dedication, skill, and ability to develop highly competent and ethical students’.

“Her reach across campus through Limerick Voice is impressive, highlighting her dedication to providing meaningful opportunities for students. Her development of the Limerick Voice and student portfolio opportunities has strengthened the journalism department in UL. Her emphasis on campaign journalism and experiential learning ensures students graduate with the skills, confidence, and ethical foundation necessary to thrive in the industry.

“She not only prepares students for their careers but inspires them to be responsible storytellers,” they wrote.

Reflecting on the honour, Dr Hayes said: “I feel very privileged to continue working in an area I have loved since my first newspaper job. Teaching in UL has allowed me to continue my passion for journalism and to learn daily from the next generation of journalists.

“The ability and courage to question, to listen, and to seek truth, underpin high quality journalism, and are equally important in the classroom. I am honoured to receive this award, and I share it with my students who are my collaborators.”