New chancellor voted in at University of Limerick

THE UNIVERSITY of Limerick has unanimously approved Professor Brigid Laffan as new chancellor and chair of its governing authority.

Laffan who is a native of Cahersiveen, County Kerry and she now lives in Dublin is distinguished academic and political scientist takes over from outgoing UL Chancellor Mary Harney, who has held the role since January 2018.

Professor Laffan is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s leading experts on European Integration and is a major contributor to the conversation about how the European project affects Ireland’s foreign policy.

In 2022, UL celebrated her exceptional contribution to academia and to European affairs by awarding her an honorary degree of Doctor of Letters. Professor Laffan is also the recipient of an Outstanding Achievement UL Alumni Award (2018).

She has published ten books and written countless journal articles and book chapters and is the recipient of awards as illustrious as the Ordre national du Mérite – an accolade conferred by the President of France.

Commenting on her appointment as Chancellor, Professor Laffan said that "UL is an extraordinary institution. It's transformative impact on this region and its academic excellence and high-quality research are plain to see. UL’s international profile is also in the ascendency."

Speaking about today’s appointment, Professor Kerstin Mey, President, University of Limerick, said "I am delighted with the appointment of Professor Brigid Laffan as Chancellor. We are truly fortunate to have secured a person of her calibre, international profile, and abilities.

“Having already honoured Brigid’s achievements we are privileged as she becomes our Chancellor to now have the benefit of her international perspective, her known capacity to build consensus, and of course her wisdom."