Mary Immaculate College’s (MIC) Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Interculturalism (EDII) Team attended the National Diversity & Inclusion Awards on Friday, 6 February, with Professor Lorraine McIlrath, Director of EDII at MIC, named winner of the Diversity & Inclusion Leader/Emerging Leader Award.
This award recognises a leader who has leveraged their influence to advance diversity and inclusion in meaningful and lasting ways. In awarding the honour, the judges praised Professor McIlrath’s commitment to embedding equality, diversity and inclusion throughout the College and for leading initiatives that translate policy into visible, practical action.
At MIC, her leadership has driven meaningful cultural and structural change, combining visible initiatives with long-term institutional reform. Through a range of equality-focused programmes, she has strengthened inclusive practices across the College and ensured that commitments to diversity and belonging are reflected in everyday campus life and in expanded opportunities for underrepresented groups.
On receiving the award, Professor McIlrath reflected:
"I’m deeply honoured to receive this award. It reflects the dedication and energy of the entire EDII Office, along with the many colleagues and students across MIC who are committed to building a more inclusive and equitable campus. Advancing equality and inclusion is collective work, and I’m proud of what we are achieving together through practical actions that make a real difference to the College community and beyond."
MIC was also shortlisted in two additional categories on the night—Advancing Gender Equality and Advancing Allyship and Bystander Engagement—reflecting the breadth of work taking place across the institution to foster a more inclusive and supportive campus culture.
Established in 2022, the EDII Office at MIC promotes open and transparent practices, fair treatment for all and a culture of respect, inclusion and consent, working in partnership with students, staff and the wider community.
Further information about the EDII Office at MIC can be found here
Pictured L-R: Prof. McIlrath, Órna Quinn, Clerical Officer; Dr Lylian Fotabong, Race Equality and Sanctuary Manager; Kathleen Maher, Sexual Violence and Harassment Prevention and Response Manager; and Edel Foster, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Interculturalism Manager.
