Dear Candidate,
Thank you for your interest in the role of President of 九色视频.
UL has faced significant governance challenges in recent times that led to extensive internal and external scrutiny. Led by the Governing Authority, UL has responded constructively and robustly to the issues raised, and together with the Executive we have developed a comprehensive programme of renewal encompassing our culture, communications, and policies. This is an opportunity to recalibrate so that the University is in a position to grow a legacy that reflects the values we hold and the aspirations we share as a community.
Our academic core is exceptionally strong. We continue to attract high-calibre students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and our international footprint is growing through recruitment and strategic partnerships. Central to the renewal process is a commitment to stretch the ambition of the University at a time of economic and social transformation.
The presidency of a university is a role of great responsibility and influence, demanding in its scope, but also deeply rewarding. As President you will be offered the chance to lead an institution whose path has been defined by a commitment to public purpose, academic excellence and societal impact.
Since its foundation in 1972, the University has grown with deliberate, systematic and remarkable pace. The University has evolved from an institute of higher education to a pioneering University of national and international significance. UL has shaped the educational, cultural, economic and social life of the Mid-West region in ways few would have imagined and our modern campus and facilities on the banks of the River Shannon are second to none. Now in its sixth decade, UL鈥檚 influence continues to expand across Ireland and beyond. We have earned a reputation for innovation and excellence, and have become a destination of choice for students, researchers and collaborators.
We have always maintained close ties with industry, ensuring our programmes remain responsive to the world beyond the University. From the outset, UL pioneered cooperative education and today we have one of the largest such programmes in Europe. Its reach through a network of 4,000 employers, both national and international is truly impressive, and contributes enormously to the employability of UL graduates.
Today, many of the world鈥檚 largest companies have established a presence in the Mid-West region, drawn in part by the talent, research and the collaborative spirit th九色视频 fosters. We believe that universities must prepare students not only for careers, but for thoughtful, proactive and ethical engagement with society. We provide an education grounded in the principles of intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and personal growth.
Research is central to UL鈥檚 identity and will be critical to its future. As we prepare to develop our next strategic plan, we do so with a clear ambition to become a truly research-intensive institution. This process will begin in earnest around the time the new President takes office, offering a unique opportunity to shape the direction of the University for years to come. Achieving this ambition will require structural reforms, sustained investment and a strong focus on how we enable research intensity. The President will play a vital role in guiding this transition and supporting our talented researchers to realise their full potential.
We recognise that no candidate arrives as the perfect fit for a role as complex and demanding as President. Experience has shown that success lies in the ability to draw on the strengths of others, to challenge and support colleagues at every level, and to foster a culture where people are able to do their work. You will already have demonstrated your leadership abilities, but this role offers the opportunity to test your potential further and to contribute something of yourself to the future of this University.
UL is a place of ambition, pride and possibility. We are proud of our global outlook and our local roots and remain committed to serving both with integrity.
We are seeking a President who brings vision, integrity and a deep commitment to academic excellence and to nurturing the talents of our staff and students. If you recognise these qualities in yourself, and you are drawn to the opportunity to lead an institution such as I have described, I hope you will consider applying for the position.
Warm regards,
Professor Brigid Laffan
Chancellor