SETU’s third annual Professional, Managerial and Support Staff (PMSS) Excellence Awards took place at SETU Arena, recognising the contribution of staff across the University.
The awards are one of three staff initiatives promoting excellence across the SETU community, alongside initiatives recognising excellence in research and teaching. Launched in 2024, the awards recognise PMSS individuals and teams who demonstrate the University’s values of excellence, inclusivity and innovation through their work.
This year, 17 individuals and five teams were nominated in recognition of their contribution and commitment to SETU. Awards were presented to five individuals and one team.
Welcoming staff to the ceremony, SETU President, Professor Veronica Campbell said:
The PMSS Excellence Awards were established to celebrate the contributions of our PMSS community across the University, and particularly those who consistently embody the values of excellence, inclusivity, and innovation in their work. This work strengthens our university’s reputation, enriches our community and enhances the experience of everyone who interacts with SETU.
Professor Veronica Campbell SETU President
Professor Campbell thanked those who put forward colleagues, noting that the nominations reflected the respect and appreciation shared across the University. She also highlighted the contribution of PMSS staff to SETU’s continued development and success.
“As President, I have the privilege of seeing first-hand how the efforts of our PMSS community are driving the success of SETU. Every day, I see colleagues who solve problems, support students, enable research, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that SETU continues to grow and succeed,” said Prof. Campbell. Congratulating the staff she said, “Your commitment helps make SETU a stronger institution and a better place to work, learn and succeed.”
Jane Mahony, HR Manager at SETU, acted as master of ceremonies, guiding attendees through the event. Staff and nominators from across several departments also contributed to the organisation of the ceremony.
Shauna Whyte, Vice President for People, Culture and EDI, highlighted the breadth of the PMSS community’s contribution.
So much of your contribution lies in how you use your expertise: bringing colleagues together, influencing decisions, anticipating difficulties and sometimes, particularly in challenging circumstances, simply keeping the show on the road for our students and staff.
Shauna Whyte Vice President for People, Culture and EDI
Ms Whyte also emphasised the role PMSS staff play in shaping SETU’s culture and the experience of those who work and study at the University.
Culture is not created by a strategy or a piece of paper. It is shaped through our everyday interactions: how decisions are made, how expertise is treated, how we respond when somebody asks for help, and whether people feel listened to and included.
Shauna Whyte Vice President for People, Culture and EDI
Formally announcing this year’s winners, Ms Whyte reflected, “In reading through the nominations, it becomes clear that through your everyday interactions and how you show up, you are creating our culture and creating the experience others have of working and studying at SETU.”
2026 Awardees
SETU was delighted to announce this year’s staff award recipients, including five individuals and one team. Each recipient was presented with their award by Prof. Veronica Campbell.
Edmond Connolly, Regional Skills Manager, is recognised for his outstanding contribution to workforce development, regional engagement, and collaborative innovation across the South East. Through his exceptional ability to connect industry, education, and training providers, Edmond has consistently identified opportunities that address critical skills needs while strengthening SETU’s impact and reputation.
A trusted and respected leader, Edmond has built an extensive network of industry and academic partners, enabling the successful development of transformative initiatives such as the High Voltage Systems Programme and the Autom8 Scholarship. His commitment to fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and creating meaningful opportunities for learners and employers has delivered significant benefits to the region and positioned SETU as a leader in responsive skills development.
Recognised for his initiative, professionalism, and unwavering dedication, Edmond continually goes beyond expectations to bring people together, develop solutions, and support regional growth. His work embodies the values of excellence, partnership, and service, making him a highly deserving recipient of a SETU PMSS Staff Excellence Award.
Clare McCormack, Senior Administrator at the Xcelerate Centre, is recognised for her exceptional dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to supporting SETU’s enterprise and innovation community. For over 14 years, Clare has been the trusted first point of contact for clients, partners, and colleagues, consistently demonstrating outstanding service, leadership, and care in every aspect of her role.
Throughout some of the most challenging periods faced by the Xcelerate Centre, Clare provided calm, decisive, and compassionate leadership. Her proactive communication, problem-solving ability, and dedication to client support helped maintain exceptional client retention, protect more than 200 jobs, and preserve SETU’s reputation as a leading incubation and innovation environment.
Known for her deep institutional knowledge, collaborative approach, and genuine investment in the success of others, Clare has built trusted relationships across the University and the wider regional enterprise ecosystem. Her ability to balance organisational priorities with a strong commitment to people has made a lasting impact on clients, colleagues, and the broader campus community.
Through 14 years of consistent excellence, Clare has embodied SETU’s values of collaboration, integrity, inclusivity, and respect. Her dedication and contribution make her a truly deserving recipient of a SETU PMSS Staff Excellence Award.
Maria O’Toole, Senior Staff Officer in the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, is recognised for her exceptional dedication, expertise, and commitment to supporting students, colleagues, and the wider University community. Throughout her career at SETU, Maria has consistently demonstrated professionalism, innovation, inclusivity, and leadership, making a significant contribution to the successful operation of academic and administrative activities across the University.
Widely regarded as a trusted source of knowledge and guidance, Maria’s exceptional understanding of University systems, processes, and student administration has enabled her to
develop more efficient approaches to student registration, examinations, and academic administration. Her work has enhanced the student experience, improved operational efficiency, and ensured the smooth running of critical processes, including Faculty Exam Boards and professional accreditation activities.
Maria is particularly recognised for her student-centered approach, working closely with Student Services to support students through challenging circumstances and ensuring that appropriate accommodations are available to meet diverse needs. Her collaborative spirit extends across faculties and campuses, where she actively promotes consistency, shares best practice, and supports colleagues through mentoring, guidance, and leadership.
In addition to her core responsibilities, Maria has made a significant contribution to University life through her active involvement in the SETU Choir, helping foster a sense of community and engagement across the institution. She has also played an important role in supporting the Faculty’s Athena Swan initiatives, contributing to efforts that promote equality, diversity, inclusion, and positive cultural change within the University.
Through her innovation, commitment to continuous improvement, and unwavering dedication to both students and staff, Maria exemplifies the values of excellence, inclusivity, collaboration, and service. Her outstanding contribution makes her a highly deserving recipient of a SETU PMSS Staff Excellence Award.
Cathy Pembroke, Project Coordinator for the Certificate in Personal Development and Certificate in Applied Skills Development programmes within the Department of Nursing and Health Care, is recognised for her exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing inclusive higher education for students with intellectual disabilities. Through her vision, commitment, and collaborative approach, Cathy has played a pivotal role in creating meaningful pathways that empower students to participate fully in university life and realise their potential.
Cathy has been instrumental in establishing and expanding these innovative programmes across both Waterford and Carlow campuses, developing inclusive systems, accessible learning supports, and strong partnerships that place student success at the heart of programme delivery. Her strategic leadership has contributed to outstanding outcomes, including exceptional retention and attendance rates, increased access to higher education, and strong progression into employment and further opportunities.
A passionate advocate for equality, inclusion, and student voice, Cathy has enabled students to participate in national conferences, leadership opportunities, and award-winning initiatives that showcase the transformative impact of inclusive education. Her ability to combine strategic oversight with compassionate support has created lasting benefits for students, families, colleagues, and the wider community.
Through her unwavering commitment to accessibility, collaboration, and excellence, Cathy embodies SETU’s values and has made a profound contribution to creating a more inclusive university experience. She is a highly deserving recipient of a SETU PMSS Staff Excellence Award.
Gemma Purcell, Enterprise Development Manager within Research, Innovation & Impact, is being recognised for her outstanding contribution to entrepreneurship, innovation, and regional economic development. Through her leadership of the New Frontiers Entrepreneur Development Programme and management of the Xcelerate Centre, Gemma has created an environment where aspiring entrepreneurs can develop, grow, and achieve success.
Combining strategic vision with operational excellence, Gemma has played a key role in strengthening SETU’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, supporting hundreds of participants and helping to establish successful new businesses that contribute to economic growth and job creation throughout the region. Her innovative approach has enhanced programme delivery, expanded engagement opportunities, and ensured that entrepreneurs receive the supports needed to progress from ideas to sustainable enterprises.
A highly respected collaborator and leader, Gemma works extensively with industry partners, mentors, investors, and enterprise agencies to build strong networks and meaningful opportunities for programme participants. She consistently seeks ways to improve enterprise supports and strengthen engagement, while fostering a positive and supportive culture where participants and colleagues feel encouraged to achieve their full potential. Her leadership style is supportive, structured, and solution-focused, underpinned by a strong commitment to professionalism, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Through her professionalism, dedication, and passion for supporting entrepreneurs, Gemma has delivered a lasting impact on individuals, businesses, and the wider region. Her contribution makes her a highly deserving recipient of a SETU PMSS Staff Excellence Award.
The Carlow Campus Cleaners, Helen Doyle, Monica Curran, Foluke Jimoh, and Angela Drea Bienko, are recognised for their exceptional commitment, dedication, and service to the SETU community. Through their professionalism, pride in their work, and unwavering attention to detail, they help create a welcoming, safe, and supportive environment for students, staff, and visitors every day.
The team consistently goes beyond their core responsibilities, taking great pride in maintaining the highest standards across the Kilkenny Road Campus in Carlow, while also fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. Their kindness, approachability, and willingness to assist others, whether helping to return lost property, checking in on colleagues, or simply brightening someone’s day, have made a lasting impact on all who encounter them.
Their commitment to excellence is reflected not only in the outstanding condition of the campus environment but also in their enthusiasm for continuous improvement and their genuine care for the University community. Their positive attitude, strong work ethic, and dedication embody the values of integrity, connection, and service that are central to SETU.
Through their hard work, professionalism, and the warmth they bring to campus life, the Carlow Campus Cleaners make an invaluable contribution to the University and are truly deserving recipients of a SETU PMSS Staff Excellence Award.