The Magazine for Alumni and Friends of the University of Ulster

ULSTER GRADUATE

A Cultural feast With 2013 focused on the UK City of Culture, Ulster steps into the limelight | Page 03 Numbers The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013 Welcome to your Contents new year, new look speak Ulster Graduate 03 A Cultural feast volumes… 05 Life in the fast lane Our alumni network and we introduce our new range of Artists’ 07 Diary dates Editions and Multiples from prominent art numbers over 150,000 and design alumni. people globally now 08 Santander and is an incredibly rich University of Ulster Fund partnership and vibrant resource for In December 2012 we launched the support networks, business University of Ulster Fund, established to 09 University of the benefit current and future generations of future development and enduring our students. friendships. Keeping in touch with With the support of our graduates and 11 News in brief our alumni and friends is more important friends, it will offer a range of much- to us than ever before. From this point we needed bursaries and scholarships ranging Getting to know you will be producing one printed issue of the from awards of £50 towards the costs of 13 magazine each year which will also be Certificates of Personal and Professional available as an online version. And those of Development to £500 travel awards, and 15 Danske partnership you for whom we have email addresses will annual scholarships of £1,000. receive our alumni e-zine on a regular basis – it can also be accessed at www.ulster. I encourage you to read more about it 16 Taking the stage ac.uk/developmentandalumni on pages 17 and 18 and I hope you will consider making a donation to support the needs of our current students and also the 17 Supporting Ulster Cultural feast students of tomorrow. While sport dominated much of 2012, 19 Building peace 2013 is the year for the arts. This issue Keeping in touch coincides perfectly with the start of 21 Starter for 10 Derry~Londonderry’s designation as the We love to see and hear from you, so UK’s City of Culture and I am delighted please remember to update your contact to say that we are playing a significant role details and tell us what you are doing. Do 23 Distinguished At any one time we hold 500 pallets of paper in stock, in events that are taking place in the city keep an eye on our website www.ulster. Graduate Award ac.uk/developmentandalumni to see details ready to be printed on. Perhaps not surprising for one throughout 2013. Our Magee campus has been a hub for the arts in the North West for of the rich and diverse events programme 25 Artists’ Editions of the UK and Ireland’s largest printing companies, many years, and this opportunity to showcase open to Ulster’s alumni. Or connect to us the talent and creativity of our students and through our social media channels – search who last year produced over 80 million items. staff in music, drama, dance, and digital arts for University of Ulster on Facebook, 26 Alumni voices is one that we are eager to grasp. Twitter and LinkedIn. We look forward to But size isn’t everything. At GPS we treat small digital print jobs with the same hearing from you during 2013. respect as big print runs. We remain dedicated to offering all our clients a genuine The theme of cultural excellence 27 Alumni news personal service that makes light work of even the most complex print project. continues throughout this issue - the acting Kate Bond fraternity is represented by features on GPS Director of Development and 29 People Our investment in state-of-the-art technology has been massive, yet even after our Chancellor Dr James Nesbitt as well Alumni Relations Alexander Road 100 years of growth, we’re still small enough to care. People keep telling us it’s as Sir Ian McKellen who will receive an Belfast BT6 9HP honorary degree from Ulster in February; this that really counts. 31 Class notes the University’s Distinguished Graduate for T: +44 (0) 28 9070 2020 2012 is renowned artist Colin Davidson; To discover more about the print based solutions we could offer your W: www.gpscolour.co.uk organization call Helen McClay on +44 (0) 28 9070 7722. E: [email protected] The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013 RE U

T a A FE cultural Feast 03 his year the University’s repute as a pre-eminent hub of creativity The River Still Sings is an interdisciplinary work which features in Northern Ireland will be in the spotlight as Derry~Londonderry music, poetry, dramatic narration, video and sound design. Professor Ttakes on the historic role as the first ever UK City of Culture. Frank Lyons will compose the score and it will be performed by The Fidelio Trio: Darragh Morgan (violin), Robin Michael (cello) and It promises to be a momentous year as communities from every pianist Dr Mary Dullea, (awarded her PhD in Performance by the corner of the city come together in a wonderfully varied programme University of Ulster). Seamus Deane, one of Derry’s most prominent of artistic activity. 2013 will not only bring a host of world-class writers, has written a new poem especially for the work. It will be entertainment to the city, it will also provide an international platform narrated by Dr James Nesbitt, a native of the North West and Chancellor for the unrivalled array of indigenous talent, providing a once-in-a- of the University of Ulster. The sound and video will be designed by lifetime opportunity to highlight the best creative talent on this island. Professor Paul Moore, Head of our School of Creative Arts.

Just as Derry~Londonderry steps into the limelight, so too does The piece explores how the nature of rivers and walls can be the University of Ulster. As Professor Frank Lyons, Director of the divisive yet healing. It will reflect the old and the very new, and the University’s Arts and Humanities Research Institute commented: heart of the work will lay out the journeys of the two great cities. The Fidelio Trio will perform alongside digitally generated 3D holograms “Throughout the year each campus presents a calendar of varied of James Nesbitt’s narration, and traditional acoustic instruments will arts events. They reflect the University’s teaching and research and be heard alongside soundscapes and live sound processing using state- demonstrate the immense creative talent of-the-art technology. stemming from our ranks. They are designed to be enjoyable and inspiring The second work, Columba activities that are valuable to students Canticles, is a new oratorio This year the University’s and the public alike – ranging from jazz commissioned for City of Culture at lunchtime to projects that collaborate 2013 to mark the association repute as a pre-eminent with international artists and designers. between St Columb’s Cathedral, 2013 will add a ‘bumper’ package of Derry’s oldest and most historic hub of creativity in events especially created for the City of building, and the saint of its title. Culture celebrations.” With music composed by Laurence Northern Ireland will Roman from the School of Creative From the outset, the City of Culture Arts, Columba Canticles is based be in the spotlight as has intended to showcase the wealth of on an award-winning poem by Sam talent in organisations and community Burnside, distinguished poet and Derry~Londonderry takes on groups throughout the city. Ulster staff have responded to the call founder of the Verbal Arts Centre in Derry. with enthusiasm. In particular, the School of Creative Arts at the the historic role as the first Magee campus is making a major contribution to the programme The Columba Canticles will bring together the choirs of the ever UK City of Culture. with a range of ambitious events covering a broad spectrum: music, University of Ulster and the University of Aberdeen, each comprising dance, drama, creative writing, visual art, and digital media. It is students, staff and members of the community. They will be directed also championing the spirit of the City of Culture by working with by Ulster’s music lecturer and Choral Director, Dr Shaun Ryan, and local artists and involving students, schools and members of the accompanied by London’s Southbank Sinfonia. The performance will community in our events. Two large-scale University projects that also include Ubi Caritas et Amor, composed by Paul Mealor, Director include these elements are: The River Still Sings and the Columba of the Aberdeen Choir, commissioned by Prince William for his Canticles. marriage to Catherine Middleton and premièred at their wedding.

The first, The River Still Sings, heralds the celebrations of the The performance in the Cathedral on Sunday 9 June 2013 launches 400th anniversary of the famous link between the walled cities of an annual choral competition and celebrates the 400th anniversary Derry and London and the importance of the Thames and the Foyle of the Promise Chalice arriving from London. It will also mark in the history of each city. It has been jointly commissioned by the completion of the restoration of the Cathedral and its enduring the Walled City Music Festival and the City of London Festival presence in the City. and will be performed in July 2013 in London and receive its Irish première, as part of the Walled City Music Festival in the City of More Info | Further information about all of the University of Ulster’s events Culture, in August. in City of Culture 2013 can be viewed at http://www.ulster.ac.uk/events The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013

Sporting life Future focus Living the dream

ROFILE Sport has always been part of Ricky’s It is inevitable that PACE is Ricky still keeps fit by running

P life, from early years in Milford, where approached by representatives from and playing football. His job has he ran and played football and hockey other sports to consider diversification. also presented him with opportunities at school (he ran middle-distance for For now, Ricky is keeping the door to attend events like Champions’ Finn Valley AC and represented Ireland open, but there are Moscow 2013 League and NBA finals, and he has up to U23 level), through to arriving (World Athletic Championships), developed strong links with players and at Jordanstown in 1992. There he Glasgow 2014 (Commonwealth management at Manchester United, FC 05 participated in numerous sports and Games) and Rio de Janeiro 2016 Bayern Munich (the team he supports) was also nurturing the seeds of sports (Olympics) to concentrate on, as well as and Real Madrid. management by bringing the Irish the full global calendar of other events. Universities Athletics Championships to the Antrim Forum in 1996. After graduating in 1997, Ricky taught He says: “Through the at his old school – PE at Royal and Prior Unprecedented success connections we have with the Comprehensive – followed by a year While London 2012 was world’s leading sportspeople, at the National Coaching & Training undoubtedly an unprecedented success I have access to people and Centre in Limerick, where he worked for PACE athletes, Ricky puts paid to with developing and elite athletes. It was the assumption that his experience was events that many people a natural progression to move to London one of continuous celebrations. “As would only dream of and to work with the world-renowned sports a veteran of summer Olympics since when I attend I know that I Life in the agent Kim McDonald. When McDonald Sydney in 2000, I can tell you that am, at that time, living every died in 2001, Ricky and his now wife they are very much ‘business as usual’ Marion set up PACE Sports Management for us. We don’t experience it in the schoolboy’s dream. with their associate Duncan Gaskell. same way as fans. We are there 24/7, “I keep in touch with These days Ricky is inevitably more grabbing four or five hours sleep at some of my former Ulster fast lane involved in management than coaching – a time so that we can concentrate on only to be expected when you can boast looking after our athletes behind the classmates and was able to There’s no doubt that 2012 has been a great year the most famous sportsman on the planet scenes. invite a few of them to attend on your books, not to mention the other events at London 2012, so for Donegal with the Sam Maguire cup returning world-beaters who are part of PACE’s “We don’t even know what roster of 75 athletes. has happened in other events until it was great to catch up last to the county for the first time in 20 years. afterwards and we catch up when the summer. whole show is over – and that’s what an “My advice to current One Donegal native had much more Ulster Graduate caught up with Ricky in Talent spotting Olympics is for us, showtime.” to celebrate as well – with gold medal- December 2012 on the back of a five-week students and recent graduates winning performances from Usain Bolt and promotional and sponsorship tour of the Usain Bolt has been with PACE is ‘add experience to your Mo Farah at London 2012 just some of the world – taking in Australia, New Zealand, since he was 16 and Mo Farah since CV’. Getting your degree is top accolades that the athletes in his care Japan, New York, San Francisco and Rio de he was 17. Spotting potential early is Most influential achieved last year. Janeiro – with some of his star clients. vital, and PACE’s global network of important, but so is working Ricky has been listed in Sports coaches helps them identify raw talent. in the area you want to focus Business International’s Top 20 most Double graduate (BA Hons Sport & Leisure Only two or three new athletes make influential sports agents in the world; on and showing potential Studies with DIS 1996, PGCE Education it onto the roster each year and Ricky listed four times in the top 20 most employers that you have a 1997) Ricky Simms is a director of PACE acknowledges that they can be selective influential people in athletics in the Sports Management based in London and in whom they work with. real interest in and dedication UK; listed in the 1000 Most Influential includes Bolt, Farah, Christine Ohuruogu to your chosen field.” “I am very proud of the role we Londoners; awarded a European and the Kenyan long-distance runner Vivian have had in taking Usain from a good Athletics Association Coaching honour Cheruiyot as part of his extended family, young athlete to a worldwide star who for Services to Athletics; and awarded such is his close relationship with them. is a genuinely global household name. Athletics Kenya Agent of the Year. He In my opinion, he is the first runner to is a Board member of the Association As someone who has been focused have achieved this accolade and we are of Athletics Managers (AAM) and an on athletics since an early age, Ricky is unlikely to see anyone emulate this for International Association of Athletics certainly the perfect example of someone decades, if not for another century,” he says. Federations (IAAF) authorised and who practices what he preaches. licensed Athlete Representative. The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013 A selection of dates for your diary A n

EVENTS educationally

Cultural Events Professorial Lectures Business and Finance graduates beneficial include those who studied Accounting and Economics, Banking and Finance, 14–23 February City of Culture Roger Austin, 13 February Economics, Applied Economics, partnership event: Brian Friel Performances, Great Professor of Education, ‘Unlocking International Business Studies etc. Hall, Magee campus the Future: The Role of the Internet in 07 The reunion will take place in the Building Bridges Between Schools’, June 2011 marked the start of an exciting educational partnership between the City of Culture University of Ulster, Coleraine. 15–17 February Lecture Theatre 8, Coleraine campus University of Ulster and Santander Universities UK. Santander Universities UK works event: Cinesonika: The echo International If you wish to find out more and catch Film & Video Festival of Sound Design, as part of a global network of higher education institutions to support study, research, Gary Adamson, Professor up with friends you might not have Magee campus/Nerve Centre 6 March of Psychology, ‘Latent Variable seen since university please contact: work experience and travel for both students and staff. 27 February–1 March City of Modelling: Applications to Mental Culture event: ‘Fulgurite Chamber’, Health’, Lecture Theatre MD108, More Info | Michael Graham: Void Gallery, Derry~Londonderry Magee campus [email protected] Aidan Doherty: [email protected] 12 February–16 March 14 March Greg Maguire, Professor or Patrick Gallen Cultural Crossings programme of of Animation, ‘Persistence of Vision: [email protected] events, Coleraine campus Animating Belfast’, Conor Lecture Theatre, Belfast campus 20 March Life Stories: Paul Muldoon, Coleraine campus 17 April Sarah Edge, Professor of UCPE Diamond Photography and Cultural Studies, Annual student Fashion Reunion 5 June ‘The Extraordinary Archive of Arthur Show, Belfast campus J. Munby: Photographing Class and 17 November UCPE Diamond 7 June End of Year student shows, Gender in the 19th Century’, Lecture Reunion – UCPE is celebrating their Belfast campus Theatre 8, Coleraine campus Diamond Anniversary on Sunday 17 November 2013 at the Titanic 9 June City of Culture event: 2 May Peter Walker, Professor of Centre, Belfast. There will be a drinks More than 1,020 partner universities are part of this Ulster Festival of Art and Design and travel by Visual Columba Canticles, St Columb’s Architecture, ‘Architecture: Craft or reception at 12 noon followed by network in countries including Argentina, Belgium, Communications students to attend the D&AD New Cathedral Sullen Art?’ Conor Lecture Theatre, luncheon. Tickets are £45. Brazil, China, Germany, the USA, Spain, Poland and Blood Exhibition in London. Belfast campus Singapore. City of Culture event: Years 1953–85 will be contacted by 12 June The partnership is fulfilling its promise of being a Internships Ulster Media Show, Foyle Theatre, year representatives. Former students very beneficial one for Ulster. In the first year of the North West Regional College More Info | For details on these lectures, and staff from 1986 onwards should The current academic year will see even more see www.ulster.ac.uk/events/professorials contact Liz Rodgers at erodgers694@ agreement, 11 international students received funding opportunities rolled out across the University. Once 1–9 July summer graduation If you are interested in attending any of hotmail.co.uk. Please note that the as part of the Santander Scholarship programme. A again, Santander Scholarships will be available ceremonies the lectures please notify the Corporate closing date for registration will be 1 further five received funding this academic year with as will support for student and staff mobility and Events Office by email to events@ulster. April 2013. future scholarships currently being processed for January entrepreneurship. Additionally, Santander Universities ac.uk or telephone 028 7012 3266 21 July City of Culture event: 2013 intake students. Students representing each faculty UK has provided access to internship collaboration The City of London Festival – The within the University have received this support. funding in conjunction with the University to run a River Still Sings, Culturlann in programme that will enable a wide range of students Derry~Londonderry Reunions Spreading their wings to obtain valuable internships in the most vibrant of businesses and organisations. 19–28 July City of Culture 21–22 June Coleraine 1988 reunion Student and staff mobility has been promoted through event: Walled City Music Festival, – Faculty of Business and Management a Mobility Scholarship and Award programme that Kate Bond, Director of Development and Alumni Derry~Londonderry enables travel for study or research purposes for highly Relations, said: “This partnership represents a set of A 25 year reunion for graduates of innovative projects and study-related experiences. In wonderful opportunities for Ulster students and staff. Faculty of Business and Management, More Info | University events: 2012, recipients of this funding travelled to Spain, The range of funding available can be used in support www.ulster.ac.uk/newsandevents Coleraine who graduated in 1988 and/ the USA, and Central and Eastern Europe to focus on of a wide range of projects for people from all faculties Development and Alumni: or who started their studies in 1985/86 subjects as diverse as typography, rheumatic diseases and enables innovative study opportunities to happen. www.ulster.ac.uk/developmentandalumni has been organised for June 2013. Well and engineering. We very much look forward to continuing to work Development (Arts and Culture) over 30 of the former classmates have www.culture.ulster.ac.uk/events.phtml with Santander and and welcome their new branch to already registered their interest in the Funding for entrepreneurship has also provided a City of London Festival: the University which opened in our Belfast campus in event and most have begun catching wonderful opportunity for many of our students. In 2012 http://mediacentre.kallaway.co.uk/city-of- December 2012.” london-festival-press-release10.htm up with their former classmates this funding supported (amongst others) the Student City of Culture 2013 events: already! www.cityofculture2013.com/events Entrepreneurship Awards, Sir John Sorrell’s talk at the The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013 RE U

T Creating the A

FE university of the future

Earlier this year, the University announced an ambitious This new campus is not a like-for-like shift of our Jordanstown development programme for our two campuses in the Greater Belfast operation to Belfast. It is so much more than a physical relocation. 09 area. These plans will equip Ulster to play a leading role in Northern It will be a centre of excellence and the birthplace for our future Ireland’s future growth, helping create a strong, stable, outward- entrepreneurs and leaders of enterprise and innovation who will looking economy. underpin the wealth and health of our society. Central to the plans is a new £250m Belfast City campus, which will house 15,000 full-time and part-time students and staff by 2018 in four interlinked buildings at York Street, Frederick Street and “Higher education has a vitally important Donegall Street, measuring approximately 75,000m² – comparable in role to play in growing our economy. size to Victoria Square. By bringing these bright, ambitious, creative people into the city centre, we will form a lively student community, This project underlines the University’s boost the local economy, complete the transformation of the commitment to this goal and to making a Cathedral Quarter and create opportunities for development in retail, entertainment, food, culture and tourism. major contribution to the economic, social and cultural vitality of the city.”

“Investment in education is an obligation Dr Stephen Farry, Minister for Employment and Learning that we have to the next generation. That is why the University of Ulster is making the Lasting legacy at Jordanstown biggest investment in our history, creating a The University’s move into the new Belfast City campus will see a vibrant, new campus in the heart of Belfast major redevelopment of the Jordanstown site, starting in 2018. which will provide a platform for world Whilst the majority of students and staff will transfer to the new Belfast City campus, the University’s relationship with the wider class teaching and research.” Jordanstown area will continue through enhancing our existing sports facilities, along with our Dalriada student residences and the Professor Richard Barnett, Vice-Chancellor FireSERT specialist engineering facility. A Masterplan concept has been developed which proposes to create an ‘urban village’ style residential development, including Internationally acclaimed mixed use community facilities which will become an integral part of The brief to our design team, internationally acclaimed architects, Jordanstown, enhancing the area and creating an exciting and vibrant FeildenCleggBradley Studios, was very clear. Our buildings place to live. and facilities must be as welcoming to our neighbours as to our students. Universities are central to the development of creative Progressive cities. By investing in the heart of the city, we are demonstrating our Professor Alastair Adair, Provost of Belfast and Jordanstown commitment to this critical goal. Our internal spaces will be visible campuses, highlighted the rationale behind the University’s vision for from the outside and our new public spaces and pathways will invite Jordanstown and the work that has been undertaken by the project the local community to come inside, helping to raise their aspirations team to reach this stage. and showing that a university education is open to them. “Having been an integral part of the Jordanstown landscape since The Vice-Chancellor said: “Universities which were built in cities 1972, the University has developed close and long-term relationships have, in the past, tended to be inward-facing institutions behind with many of our neighbouring residents and businesses. We have iron railings and walls which, as a result, did not interact with the taken time to research thoroughly and consider the Masterplan for the communities around them. future development of the site. “We are breaking from that tradition with a bold design that “We appointed a team of specialist consultants to work with us on sends out a very strong message locally and internationally that we the development and we believe that the proposed design concepts for want everyone to feel that this is their university, regardless of their the ‘urban village’ and our retained facilities at Jordanstown reflect the background, and we want them to have access to the building and University’s long-term presence on the site and our commitment to facilities inside. While the architecture of this new civic building is respecting the residential character of the surrounding area.” important, it is the activity inside it which will ultimately determine its success.” For further information | Please visit www.ulster.ac.uk/greaterbelfastdevelopment The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013

including the Department of Enterprise,

S Trade and Investment and the First Trust Bank, will regularly assess the state of W the economy and inform and critique

NE News in Northern Ireland Executive policies.

The integral role played by SMEs brief in the growth of the local economy was Every year, the University generates thousands recognised by the launch of a dedicated of column inches in printed publications, hours of broadcast time and substantial Centre for SME Development. The In the clouds Keeping the brain new Centre helps SMEs achieve 11 online coverage through websites and social media, thanks to the stories business goals through programmes The provision of, and demand for, healthy generated by our teaching and learning, research, innovation and the year-long to boost business performance and by Cloud Computing services is opening calendar of events. Here is a snapshot of just some of the stories that hit the facilitating leadership and management up exciting new business opportunities A study has revealed that a drug development. The Centre for SME headlines in recent months. around the world, says Professor of designed for diabetes sufferers Development provides a range of Telecommunications Gerard Parr. could have the potential to treat support activities, development Following a visit to the United Arab neurodegenerative diseases like programmes and events delivered Emirates, Professor Parr said the market Alzheimer’s. Type II diabetes is a was rapidly expanding as computer users known risk factor for Alzheimer’s by the Ulster Business School’s staff sought lower costs and the minimum and it is thought that impaired insulin complemented by visiting lecturers and overheads, saying: “Essentially, Cloud signalling in the brain could damage sectoral experts. Computing is a ‘pay-as-you-go’ model nerve cells. Scientists believe that drugs for outsourced computing resources designed to tackle Type II diabetes where the headaches and costs of could also have benefits for keeping our purchasing and maintaining expensive brain cells healthy. equipment are reduced or removed Professor Christian Hölscher and his completely from the user.” team used an experimental drug called (Val8)GLP-1. This drug simulates the Sustainability Emerging talent The language of activity of a protein called GLP-1which Ulster has an ongoing and steadfast A new generation of emerging business can help the body control its response commitment to sustainability. We were young talent unveiled their stunning to blood sugar. The team found that Ulster teamed up with top local delighted that this was recognised by catwalk creations at the End of Year blocking the effect of GLP-1 in the businesses including Wrightbus, Justice and peacebuilding the award of ‘First Class Honours’ in Fashion Show in summer 2012. The brain made mice perform more poorly Michelin, Bombardier and Moy Park the People and Planet Green League designs on show reflected the high on learning and memory tasks, while Transitional justice is a burgeoning to equip their employees with the Table for the second year running. quality workmanship and skills of boosting it with the drug seemed to area of study and policy, and gender is language skills they will need to do Ulster also won a top energy efficiency our top textile and fashion design have no effect on behaviour. The new one of the most prominent sub-themes business with China. Our innovative Brain award at the annual Sustainable students. Industry leaders attended the It’s connected findings, published in the journal of transitional justice. The 5th Annual Chinese language and cultural Research Ireland Awards which recognises extravaganza, which provided experts , are part of ongoing research Summer School on Transitional Justice, awareness course is delivered by the Connected Health is a way of the effective energy and carbon in the trade with a first glimpse of funded by Alzheimer’s Research UK, organised by the Transitional Justice Confucius Institute at the University of connecting patients to their healthcare management which has been in place Northern Ireland’s best up-and-coming the leading dementia research charity. Institute, brought together practitioners, providers via the technology now found Ulster in partnership with the School academics and postgraduate students over the last 20 years. young talent. in common household items such as cell of Modern Languages. Professor Pól from around the world to share in Ó Dochartaigh, Dean of Arts, said: phones, computers, smart phones and The University was also awarded interactive seminars and workshops “China’s economy is expanding rapidly. simple networked medical devices. The official Fairtrade status, following a Sustainable technologies centred on United Nations Security It has become the second strongest University is a sector leader in this field, successful awareness campaign run Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Two purpose-built, fully- economy in the world and there is every with a number of Connected Health across all four campuses. Fairtrade is Peace and Security. functioning terraced houses were chance that it will become the strongest initiatives based in the Nanotechnology a tool for development that ensures constructed at the Jordanstown economy in the world. and Integrated BioEngineering Centre disadvantaged farmers and workers in campus, in order to monitor how on the Jordanstown campus. Mental health workers and developing countries get a better deal conflict resolution experts from much energy is lost in a typical home. “China is seeking to engage with the through the use of the international around the globe explored new ways Each of the houses, exact replicas wider world, and we have to engage Professor Norman Black, Professor Fairtrade Mark. For a product to of addressing the legacy of violent of properties built in the Ravenhill with them. As part of that, learning of Medical Informatics said: “There can display the Mark it must meet Keeping an eye on political conflict. The event, in the area of east Belfast during the 1900s, about the language, the culture and the be little doubt that the case has already international Fairtrade standards. The form of an international workshop, is occupied by a member of staff way China does business is the key to been made for a radical change in the business University was commended on: the was jointly organised by INCORE, the and their families. The research on developing links with China.” delivery of health and social care across quality of University and Students’ energy loss and possible retrofitted the globe, including Northern Ireland. Two new centres were launched in University’s conflict research institute, Union Fairtrade policies; extensive energy efficient technologies, funded A growing number of international the Ulster Business School in 2012. The and the International Development use of Fairtrade tea and coffee at by the Department for Employment governments are looking to Connected Northern Ireland Centre for Economic Research Centre of Canada. Its focus in-house events; and excellent use of and Learning (DEL), is being carried Health as the basis of the new world Policy (NICEP), which will be based at was on ‘Trauma, Development and publications and the University and out by the Centre for Sustainable delivery systems.” the Ulster Business School with start-up Peacebuilding: Towards an Integrated Students’ Union websites. Technologies. funding provided by a range of sources Psychosocial Approach’. The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013 RE U T

A GETTING FE TO KNOWyou 13 Chancellor Dr James Nesbitt took time out from his acting commitments to visit all four campuses in November 2012, meeting students and staff involved in a diverse range of subjects, as well as being introduced to some of the pioneering scientific research taking place here at Ulster.

Also in Belfast, he addressed an external audience, Coleraine saw him pay tribute to 150 full and part-time “I’ve really enjoyed having the updating them on our plans for the new Belfast City campus. graduates who received their nursing badges. He noted: “Ulster “The plans the University has submitted for the campus are has a strong tradition of producing top quality nursing graduates opportunity over the past two days to visionary and will contribute significantly to the development and it is great to join them and staff on this special day. of a more confident, more vibrant, forward and outward- talk to staff and students and witness looking Belfast,” he said. “The high quality of the education they receive was recognised “Ulster’s commitment to making higher education possible for recently by the Nursing and Midwifery Council, whose at first hand the incredible teaching young people is something I am very passionate about, and the 2011–12 monitoring results showed Ulster was one of two location of this campus, the openness of the design – breaking approved education institutions to get an ‘outstanding’ and learning opportunities Ulster is down barriers between background and higher education – grading for practice learning and one of five institutions to get reinforces our ethos. What could be better for the development ‘outstanding’ in any of the five areas monitored.” offering and the remarkable research of this city and this region than a university, with all its global connections, coming into the heart of Belfast, offering and innovation taking place across all our campuses.” full and part-time educational opportunities to people of all backgrounds and access to world class research?”

At Magee campus, Dr Nesbitt hosted a question and In Belfast, he dropped into the digital animation studio At Jordanstown, the Chancellor visited the Centre Also at Coleraine, he visited the Centre for Molecular answer session with Drama and Media students in the Foyle where Professor Greg Maguire and Conann Fitzpatrick are for Sustainable Technologies and was also briefed on our Biosciences. he said: “In the last Research Assessment Arts Building. passing on their expertise to Art and Design students. pioneering work in the field of Connected Health. Exercise, the Biomedical Sciences Research Institute finished top in the UK for research power. Ulster’s biomedical He said: “I’m thrilled to have had the opportunity to visit the Dr Nesbitt said: “The last two years I have spent in New Dr Nesbitt said: “It’s great to be back in Jordanstown, where I scientists are conducting groundbreaking, internationally Magee campus, to meet staff as well as Drama and Media Zealand on The Hobbit movies have given me a real insight into was a student, and to see at first hand the incredible scientific recognised research into nutrition, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and students. how CGI has radically transformed cinema. research our academics are involved in.” other degenerative diseases.” “The Foyle Arts Building is a terrific facility, enabling “With this kind of facility plus staff expertise, it is not all School of Creative Arts to nurture some of our brightest and that surprising that the first crop of graduates are in demand most creative talent in music, dance, drama, the creative and it really bodes well for the future of Northern Ireland’s technologies, design and filmmaking.” burgeoning film industry.” The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013

S Ulster students profit W Taking NE from Danske Major awards Sir Ian has been partnership the stage honoured with more than 40 international awards for his performances on screen and 15 In 2012, the University joined forces with Danske Bank in stage. a new partnership founded on our mutual commitment Renowned stage and screen actor Sir He was born in 1939 and raised in the industrial north to supporting educational opportunities for young Ian McKellen, CH, CBE will deliver of England of Northern Irish people in Northern Ireland. the Chancellor’s Lecture in February stock and started acting at Magee campus. This will be the first professionally in 1961. After reading English at Cambridge With each party firmly This new collaboration will Complementing this hands-on University and completing a three-year apprenticeship acknowledging the utmost see us working together across a programme for students, the bank is time the prestigious event has been held with regional theatre companies, he was recognised as a importance of education as a number of areas. These include our also putting its weight behind one at the Derry~Londonderry campus. prominent actor of his generation. vital path to our future prosperity, Schools and College Engagement of Ulster’s most successful public His youthful performances as Shakespeare’s Richard this innovative partnership links Plans, entailing a range of activities initiatives, Life Stories. Life Stories II and Marlowe’s Edward II stormed the 1969 Edinburgh academia and commerce to create from Open Days, to presentations to is a series of ‘in conversation’ Festival, played two seasons in London, toured Europe and a special combination of expertise, schools across Northern Ireland and events with distinguished Ulster were televised. In pursuit of the ideal theatre ensemble, he able to provide practical, relevant parents’ evenings. The partnership graduates and has included names ir Ian will be the sixth distinguished speaker to deliver was a founder-member of the touring Actors’ Company. As help to new and aspiring students. will enable us to work with schools such as Paul Brady, Baroness leading man for the Royal Shakespeare Company, he has and colleges throughout the country, Shirley Williams and Moya Doherty the annual lecture, following in the footsteps of Tony Wilcox, Managing S played Macbeth with Judi Dench and Iago with Willard as well as others in Great Britain, to date. These one-off events are Taoiseach Enda Kenny who spoke on wide-ranging themes Director, Retail & Private Banking, White. He has starred in a score of modern plays, many for making it possible for us to meet the always packed with students, staff when he delivered the lecture on the Belfast campus in 2012. at Danske said: “Our future will needs of future students. and members of the public, and their the National Theatre under its first director Laurence Olivier be determined by today’s young It is fitting that Sir Ian’s lecture will be delivered on informal manner more often than and his successors. people. A large part of this new In addition, Danske Bank will the Magee campus as it is home to the School of Creative not makes for a fascinating evening Sir Ian has worked extensively on television e.g. Stephen partnership revolves around provide bespoke financial advice for Arts which offers degree programmes in drama, dance, of revealing, amusing and poignant Frears’ Walter, The Scarlet Pimpernel, And the Band Played outreach to schools – guiding new students across the campuses music, design and creative technologies. This event will tales and recollections. On, Rasputin, Cold Comfort Farm. In 2005 he fulfilled his parents and students on future career as part of their introduction to also be a high point of the University’s programme for paths and the academic routes and university life during their early The University looks forward to Derry~Londonderry’s 2013 City of Culture celebrations. ambition to act in the ever-running British soap, Coronation associated funding required. This days as a fresher. working with Danske in what has Street. is an extremely important stage the assured makings of an extremely McKellen has made more than 40 movies. In 1996, he Vice-Chancellor, Professor in young people’s lives and we valuable partnership. Honorary degree co-produced, co-scripted and starred in his film adaptation Richard Barnett, said: are committed to assisting and Sir Ian will also receive the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Richard III. After Stephen King’s Apt Pupil, he achieved supporting where possible.” of Letters for his services to acting at the event. The award his first Oscar® nomination as film director James Whale in Danske Bank, formerly known “The support from Danske will be conferred by the Chancellor, Dr James Nesbitt, who Gods and Monsters. Younger cinemagoers discovered him co-stars with Sir Ian in Peter Jackson’s film adaptations of J as Magneto in the X-Men films and as the wizard Gandalf in as the Northern Bank, has been Bank will allow Ulster to involved to varying degrees with R R Tolkien’s The Hobbit. his Oscar®-nominated performance in The Lord of the Rings develop a range of activities the University of Ulster for some Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Communication) and Provost trilogy. In 2006, he played Sir Leigh Teabing in The Da Vinci time. We worked together on with future, current and past (Coleraine and Magee), Professor Deirdre Heenan said the Code. He is currently working on Vicious, an ITV sit-com Northern Ireland’s first loan scheme students. We are very excited campus was honoured to host the Chancellor’s Lecture: “The with Derek Jacobi. specifically designed for full-time that the connection with University is delighted to recognise an actor of Sir Ian’s He toured the world as King Lear, in the final production postgraduates in the Ulster Business Danske Bank will initiate and standing with an honorary doctorate and that he has agreed for The Royal Shakespeare Company’s Complete Works School back in 2005; the ‘Sport 4 U’ to deliver the 2013 Chancellor’s Lecture. Festival (2007): followed by a sell-out tour and two London programme designed to encourage enhance a range of major “It is also wonderful for Derry~Londonderry as the 2013 seasons in Waiting for Godot. students and staff to enjoy the activities at the University.” benefits of sports activity (2006); City of Culture that this event is coming for the first time to He has been an eloquent advocate for gay rights since he and earlier this year, a creative Magee and it will no doubt be a highlight for the city and for came out in 1988 and co-founded Stonewall, the UK charity initiative called ‘Home is Where the University.” which lobbies for legal and social equality for gay people. the Art is’ which involved a series The following year, he was knighted for his contribution of commissions of original student to the performing arts. In 2007, the Queen appointed him artwork for the bank’s first-time Companion of Honour for services to Drama and Equality. house buyers. The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013

Supporting Ulster The new fund invited applications of digital technologists working in 2012 University of Ulster in November 2012 and received and with museums internationally. S an overwhelming number of The bursary will make it possible for Fund Award Winners W applications totalling 90 requests for Oonagh to attend this conference, financial support. Speaking at the providing access to training not Opening up opportunities NE awards ceremony in December at available in the UK, enabling her to Learning The University of the Jordanstown campus, Professor to meet key international figures Alastair Adair, Pro-Vice-Chancellor working in her field and the £1,000 Gateway Scholarships – Julie Steele (full- (Development) said: “In my role opportunity to clarify questions time) and Ian Healy (part-time) as Chair of the Fund Disbursement brought up by her research. £500 Broadening Horizons Travel Bursary – Committee I can tell you it was a Ulster Fund – a Gift William Brewster, Breedge Callagan and Oonagh challenging task to select the 17 17 Murphy successful applicants, such was the Your opportunity quality of the submissions. Had to ‘give something we the funds we could have easily Rewarding Excellence from One Generation supported double the number of back’ £1,000 Sport Scholarship – Sinead Connelly students.” We’re all familiar with the phrase Gateway to success to ‘give something back’ as it is one £500 Academic Excellence Awards which is often heard in the media Rachael Annett – Faculty of Art, Design and the to the Next and society at large today – the The Vice-Chancellor presented Built Environment 17 student awards and a grant to University of Ulster Fund provides a Matthew McDowell – Faculty of Arts the Student Hardship fund and the perfect opportunity for our graduates Students at Ulster can look forward to an even brighter future Library. The student awards included to consider donating to a good cause Kenneth Vaughan – Faculty of Computing and two new Gateway Scholarships, a that helps current students achieve all Engineering thanks to the support of University alumni, staff and friends. brand new scholarship supported they can during their time with us. Sheree Kirkwood – Faculty of Life and Health exclusively by the Fund, available to The fund will be supported by a Sciences The new University of Ulster Fund, recently launched by the The Fund, previously known as the Alumni Fund, has been in both full-time undergraduate and part- major new fundraising initiative, Vice-Chancellor, Professor Richard Barnett, will offer a range existence since 2003 and has provided much needed support time adult learners offering £1,000 the cornerstone of which will be a Emily Brussard – Faculty of Life and Health of scholarships, bursaries and awards to recognise and reward for libraries, student hardships and travel bursaries. Times per year to help with the costs of their student-led telephone campaign. Sciences study. On being presented with the achievement, promote student innovation and creativity – and have changed for students and we felt the time was right to The first telethon, which kicks off Andrew Park – Faculty of Social Sciences provide help for students who need additional financial support. re-invigorate this initiative, with an emphasis on recognising first Gateway Scholarship (part-time), on 4 February 2013 and runs for six the achievements of our students and offering that helping hand Ian Healy spoke of the life changing weeks, will see students from across Phillippa Watson – Ulster Business School when it is needed. impact of such an award, saying: the University calling thousands of “The award of the Gateway you, our alumni, to introduce you to the fund and to seek your support. The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship is immense to me, as it Student Fund will allow me to devote more time to Donations of all sizes are welcome my studies and to improve myself, and we hope that if you receive a call Opening up Opportunities to Learning – providing Gateway £1,000 – Ronan Harkin, MEng Mechanical knowing that I now have extra help to from one of our students that you will The new Fund scholarships to full-time and part-time students from low income Engineering meet the extra expenses that a degree consider helping us to create more households and a range of academic travel bursaries. £770 will offer support course can entail. It provides peace opportunities for students like Ian and – Simon Connelly, BEng (Hons) Electronics of mind and a comfort blanket against Oonagh. and Software in five areas, Rewarding Excellence – providing Academic Excellence Awards the cold economic climate. I don’t £1,000 which recognise the academic successes of our students and Sport – Thomas Brady, MEng Mechanical reflecting the know if I could have survived without To make your gift now Support scholarships supporting our most talented sportsmen and women. | Engineering it. I can’t thank the former students the University of Ulster Fund by £980 values of Ulster enough for making it possible for me contacting: – Junxiu Liu, PhD Computer Science Student Hardship – making extra funds available to the Student and the needs of to get this grant. Thank you.” Annual Fund Officer Hardship Fund, helping students who are facing hard times through no Development and Alumni Relations Library fault of their own. The University’s focus on helping today’s students: Office An award of £3,000 students to take up opportunities Room 82C25 Supporting the Library which enhance their studies also University of Ulster – helping to fund more books and journals Belfast campus as well as digitizing existing texts, making sure our libraries remain featured in the Awards, with three York Street Student Support – Student state of the art. students receiving Broadening Belfast Horizons Travel Bursaries. Oonagh Co Antrim BT15 1ED Hardship Fund An award of £2,000 The Vice-Chancellor’s Student Fund – an unrestricted category Murphy, a 3rd year PhD student in Telephone +44 (0)28 9536 7514 the Faculty of Arts received £500 of the Fund, designed to create impact whenever and wherever the universityofulsterfund@ulster. opportunity arises, giving grants which recognise individual talent, towards the cost of travelling to the ac.uk entrepreneurship and creativity. US to attend Museums and The Web www.ulster.ac.uk/ 2013 – the biggest annual meeting developmentandalumni The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013 RE U T May 2012 A • Ulster alumni to Irish-American friends and joined the University at the supporters. The event was also FE American Ireland Fund gala in attended by a number of Ulster New York. We were delighted alumni who have been central Ulster’s contribution to welcome New York-based to the US fundraising efforts alumni David Hamilton (Law including Paul Jennings (BSc to peacebuilding at with Economics LLB, 2006), Hons Human Communication, now working as an Attorney 1999) who now works for home and overseas 19 for Zeichner Ellman & Krause Silicon Valley Bank. LLP and Ciaran Kennedy (BEng Hons Software Engineering with Next steps DIS, 2003), now Vice President INCORE is unique in that it is based in a of Solutions Consulting at NYSE A programme of events society emerging from conflict Technologies to the Ulster table. linked to our work in peace The University contingent also and conflict will take place Our Masters degree in Peace and Conflict met other alumni during the visit, in the UK, Ireland and the studies at Magee campus is the oldest course Building Peace Locally, including Margaret Molloy (BA USA throughout 2013. From of its type on the island of Ireland Hons European Business Studies 24 – 26 May the University is collaborating with the Rotary (Spanish), 1993) now Chief Our annual International Summer School Club of Londonderry to hold Marketing Officer for Velocidi, and Masters degree have transferred Making Peace Globally who served on the organising a Global Peace Forum in peacebuilding skills to over 1400 people from Derry~Londonderry as part committee for the gala itself and over 30 countries Gavan Corr (PGDip Business of the UK City of Culture Administration, 1999), now with celebrations – see www. INCORE’s MSc course has attracted more Cowen Group, Inc. peaceconference2013.com. Peace and conflict issues are never far from the minds of those who Mitchell Scholars (7 in total) than any other • September 2012 Celebration The University’s Development degree in the University of Ulster live in Northern Ireland, it is often all too clear that peacebuilding event to mark the centenary and Alumni Relations team will remains a pressing and live part of our day-to-day lives. The University of of Tip O’Neill’s birth, John continue to actively fundraise Our graduates go on to apply their skills Ulster has a proud and unequalled track record in the area of peacebuilding reaching back over decades. Hume’s 75th birthday and the for and promote the Chair and with real impact, for example, working with We now want to build on our achievements in this area in ways which will benefit current and future University’s plans to establish the overall INCORE Peace internally displaced persons in Colombia or generations. A key priority, linked to our fundraising efforts over the next few years, is the establishment the Hume O’Neill Chair in Initiative. We are aiming to joining UN and EU missions in Democratic Peace at Magee campus. This reach the fundraising target of Republic of Congo, Kosovo and Serbia of a Chair (Professorship) which honours the significant contributions of John Hume and Tip O’Neill to event was compered by Dr £3 million for the Chair by the peacebuilding in Northern Ireland. Miriam O’Callaghan, and the end of 2013. Our senior academics have been seconded incomparable Phil Coulter Gifts of any size will help to leadership roles in the Human Rights took time out of his busy to establish the Chair and Commission, Community Relations Council touring schedule to perform Research Institute (INCORE) is seeking to raise £3 million, pleased to be working closely in recognition of donations and as Police Ombudsman for guests. Speakers included “All politics is local.” – the University’s centre of with a further £2.5 million to be with both the Hume and O’Neill there are a range of naming US Consul General Gregory excellence for peace and conflict raised to establish the INCORE families to realise this ambitious opportunities and benefits. INCORE staff have been directly engaged Thomas P. O’Neill work at the Magee campus. Peace Initiative for an initial five project.” Burton, Deputy First Minister with peacebuilding on the ground in on the Former Speaker of the US House This wider initiative, which years. Martin McGuinness and former ground in NI and in many conflict regions of Representatives includes a Lesson Learning Highlights of 2012 US Ambassador Sean Donlan. We are delighted that to date Programme and a range of Thomas P. O’Neill III, Tip’s “Peace making is not an £2.1 million has already been included: In winter 2012 our academics completed Masters and PhD scholarships, son, and Dr Pat Hume both a report which identifies the reconciliation The John Hume and Thomas P. raised through the generosity of March 2012 event, but a process.” will equip a new generation of • Hume O’Neill paid tribute to John and Tip’s priorities for Northern Ireland for the Office of O’Neill Chair in Peace will build a number of private donations, peacebuilders for the future, not Chair in Peace featured at the unique friendship which led to the First Minister and the Deputy First Minister on the University’s impressive coupled with a £1 million grant John Hume, only in Northern Ireland but American Ireland Fund National the increased commitment of the track record and lead work on from the International Fund for Nobel Peace laureate overseas, particularly those from Gala in Washington DC. Vice- US to the non-violent approach global initiatives designed to Ireland. INCORE is an associated centre of the countries in conflict. Chancellor Professor Richard advocated by John Hume. make a practical difference United Nations University Kate Bond, Director of Barnett joined senior political For further information to ensuring peace, locally • November 2012 Tom Development and Alumni and business leaders from the Visit: www.ulster.ac.uk/ and further afield, for future Fundraising target and Shelly O’Neill hosted a incorepeaceinitiative Our Conflict Archive on the Internet (CAIN), Relations, says: “We have had US, UK, Northern Ireland and generations. The academic memorable event in their home or for further information on the internationally acclaimed and largest web To establish the Hume O’Neill a busy year fundraising for the Irish Republic to showcase helping us to reach our target, appointed to the Chair will also in Boston to introduce the resource on the Northern Ireland conflict has Chair as an endowed position, the Chair on both sides of the our work as a leading centre for email: incorepeaceinitiative@ steer a wider initiative based at University and the John Hume ulster.ac.uk attracted over 12 million visitors to date in perpetuity, the University Atlantic. The University is very peace and conflict studies. Ulster’s International Conflict and Thomas P. O’Neill Chair The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013 ROFILE P 4. Who or what has Ulster Graduate been your greatest puts 10 questions to influence? 7. What was the last 21 Gillian McLornan, Personally, I most admire my husband 1. What’s on your who has been a very positive influence book you read? Group Director of on my life and career, aiding my agenda today? Do you really want to know? 50 ability to work with Swiss precision, Brand Partnerships, Shades of Pink and I am currently My day starts with school runs at while maintaining a fun, positive reading Jeffrey Archer’s latest, The 7.15am, then it’s off to the office to Irish sense of humour. Stephan is the Jumeirah Group. Sins of the Father. Gillian graduated work with partners on 2013 spring and General Manager of Jumeirah Zabeel summer marketing campaigns which Saray on Palm Jumeirah. in 1991 with a BA are well underway – alongside 8. Favourite childhood finalising our partnership agreements memory? Hons in Hotel and sales plans for the next 12 months. and Catering Typically I will have conference calls My first trip to London. I was about Management and is in the afternoon with our European 8 years old and was inspired not only and US partners. This evening we by the glamour of travelling, but also now based in Dubai. have the opening event of the Dubai touring London’s iconic sites on an International Film Festival at Madinat open top bus. She has almost two Jumeirah. decades of sales 9. Sum yourself up in and marketing 2. Best piece of advice one line experience with you’ve received? A hospitality professional, full-time luxury hotel brands ‘Measure twice cut once’. In our working mother of two small children, in the Middle East, business, care and attention to detail is married to a busy general manager – at the core of everything we do. one word really, driven! the US and the UK. 5. Favourite In her role with 3. Favourite University website? 10. Tips for Ulster Jumeirah Group, of Ulster memory? www.jumeirah.com of course! students/recent graduates? Gillian develops Our practical days when we were innovative sales given free rein in the training kitchens 6. Invite five people Irish people have been very and restaurants in Jordanstown. We (any era) to dinner….. successful across the globe for and marketing cooked up and created a storm which generations; my advice is to travel programmes typically ended somewhere late into Amelia Mary Earhart, aviation’s and take any overseas opportunity the evening in the Students’ Union. pioneering lady; Rory McIlroy, that comes your way. We live in a delivered through Jumeirah’s own global brand time when skills and qualifications STARTER the company’s ambassador; His Highness Sheikh are a given, but emotional and Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, cultural intelligence is king. global sales and Vice President and Prime Minster distribution teams. of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; Sir FOR Richard Branson; and, of course, we would require one the world’s greatest chefs to cook for us. Gillian McLornan10 Jumeirah global brand ambassador Rory McIlroy The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013

FIRST TRUST BANK /

ROFILE UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER P DISTINGUISHED GRADUATE AWARD 23

This prestigious Award is made each year at the Winter International recognition Graduation ceremonies to an alumnus/alumna of the University ‘in recognition of outstanding achievement in Colin started practicing in the area of graphic design their chosen field’. In December 2012, the recipient was and illustration, founding his own company in 1993 the artist Colin Davidson, an outstanding example of an and becoming a member of the Chartered Society of Ulster graduate who has excelled in his field. Designers in 1995. As well as providing design solutions In 1988 Colin received the Certificate in Foundation for clients worldwide, Colin Davidson Design offered a Studies in Art and Design with distinction at the University series of placements to Visual Communication students of Ulster before getting a first class honours degree in for many years. In 2000 he left his design practice to Design in 1991. He followed in the footsteps of his father, devote his time fully to painting. the artist Rowland Davidson, who studied Fine Art at the In recent years Colin’s practice has developed from Belfast College of Fine Art, where his tutors included John the urban landscape, focusing mainly Luke and Tom Carr. on Belfast; through sophisticated Colin has a highly successful multi-layered paintings of shop career, exhibiting extensively in This award is made window reflections; to portraits, the UK, the United States, Europe each year to an often of famous figures. His latest and Ireland. His work is in public body of work, a selection of large and corporate collections across alumnus/alumna scale portraits of writers, musicians Ireland, including the Arts Council of the University and actors, includes Brian Friel, of Northern Ireland; the BBC; the Michael Longley, Duke Special, Bar Library, Belfast; the National ‘in recognition Ciaran Hinds, Paul Brady, Adrian Self Portrait Collection of Ireland, of outstanding Dunbar, Barry Douglas, Basil Limerick; the Office of Public Works Blackshaw, Mark Knopfler and Collection, Ireland; the Law Society achievement in their Marie Jones. Work by Colin was of Ireland; Queen’s University, chosen field’. commissioned for the new Lyric Belfast; and most recently, the Theatre, where he personally National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin. presented his pieces to HM The Queen and the President of Ireland He exhibited extensively in 2012 during the Royal visit to Northern Ireland in 2012. with work being shown at the RHA Annual Exhibition, Dublin; the National Portrait Gallery, London; the Royal Colin’s portraits are now recognised internationally. Academy Summer Exhibition, London (where he was an Just Sharp Reminding, his portrait of Duke Special, invited artist); the American Irish Historical Society, New won the US Council and Irish Arts Review Award at York; the Royal Ulster Academy, Belfast; and the Oliver the Royal Hibernian Academy in Dublin in 2010. His Sears Gallery, Dublin. portrait of Brian Kennedy was awarded the Perpetual Gold Medal at the Royal Ulster Academy, Belfast, in He has exhibited regularly at the Royal Hibernian October 2011. Also in 2011 his painting Thread the Academy Annual Exhibition and twice won awards. He Light (Portrait of Glen Hansard) was selected for the BP Colin Davidson has been an Academician of the Royal Ulster Academy Portrait Award at the National Portrait Gallery, London. since 2006, where in 2012 he was elected President. He This piece was also used on the cover of Oscar-winning has won the Royal Ulster Academy Gold Medal three Hansard’s latest album, Rhythm and Repose. times (most recently in 2010 and 2011), the Silver Medal twice and the coveted Conor Prize in 2002. Last year his The University is delighted to recognise Colin’s striking portrait of poet Michael Longley was awarded contribution to artistic life and to welcome him to our the prestigious Visitors’ Choice Award at the BP Portrait cohort of Distinguished Graduates. Award at the National Portrait Gallery, London. The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013

NI Convocation: the

UM University Your L Alumni Graduate Voice of A Multiples/Artists’ ASSOCIATION the University Most of you will be aware that all students of the University of Ulster automatically 25 Editions become members of our Alumni Association upon graduation. Membership is free of charge and offers a range of exciting ways in which you can remain engaged with the University.

The Association exists to promote communication between the University and its alumni and amongst alumni themselves. Members receive The Ulster Graduate magazine (either in print or online) and a regular alumni e-update. The e-updates provide you with news of events, training, The University’s Convocation The 2012 winner of employment and study opportunities, and is a body consisting of graduates, Convocation’s Student of the Year what’s happening across the University. honorary graduates, all academic Award is Stephen Campbell who is members of staff, and certain being recognised for his academic Alumni are invited to attend events Officers of the University of Ulster. success whilst accomplishing and reunions in Northern Ireland, Ireland We are proud to include all of our outstanding achievements as a and across the globe. In 2012 our alumni alumni in this membership and Paralympic swimmer. received invitations to attend reunions and would encourage you to become events in Boston, Washington DC and The 2012 winner of involved. Convocation’s role is to: London to name just a few locations. Convocation’s Postgraduate Student • Respond to consultative of the Year Award is Professor The Association is run by an executive Also included in the Artists’ This series of editions by Bill Tormey whose research at the committee which is made up of alumni from documents from the Editions is a set of tableware by established and emerging artists University of Ulster has focused The University has across Northern Ireland. The Association University David Sherry which includes a associated with Ulster provides on a critical analysis of the role of introduced a new is chaired by the President of the Alumni teapot, cup and saucer, dinner a unique opportunity to own • Note and comment on forensic medicine, biochemistry and exciting and creative Association, Anne Rowe, who says: “We plate and side plate for £170. a contemporary work of art or matters it considers toxicology in the coronial system are always interested in hearing from our range of memorabilia by The same design by David design at an affordable price. in the United Kingdom and the graduates with their ideas. The members of important within, for and commissioning artists Sherry is also available on Republic of Ireland. The Artists’ Editions and the committee change from time to time and about the University and designers who are canvas bags priced at £6 and The Chairperson of the 12 Multiples are available for we would welcome expressions of interest Ulster alumni to create a tee-shirts at £15. We also have • Eelect four members of the person Executive Committee, Mary purchase from the Development from those of you who are based in Northern series of Artists’ Editions mouse mats designed by Aisling University Court Campbell, says: “We welcome the (Arts and Culture) Office at the Ireland. Our meetings can be attended in and Multiples. O’Beirn for sale at £3. involvement of our graduates and Belfast campus, person or by videoconference from one of • Aact as a forum for discussion are always pleased to hear from Another must have is Peter tel: 028 9536 7287 the four campuses. We very much want to and debate remain a vibrant forum for communication our membership about any matters The artists commissioned Strain’s Limited Edition Print at email: developmentandalumni@ and engagement of our graduates and it is relating to the University which include: Turner Prize nominee £50. All works are produced in ulster.ac.uk • Organise events, sponsor only with your support and enthusiasm that they feel should be discussed by Phil Collins, Mary McIntyre and small editions, not unique, but See http://tinyurl.com/ awards and prizes, and raise we can continue to achieve this.” Convocation.” Seamus Harahan who have each limited enough to be rare. ulsterartistseditions funds in support of gifts to If you would like to become produced a photographic print in If you would be interested in becoming a the University. involved with Convocation please an edition of 25 for only £150. member of the committee, please contact the see contact details below. This is a unique opportunity to Alumni Relations Office: purchase work by internationally renowned artists at a fraction of Contact | Alumni Relations Assistant Contact | E: [email protected] or visit the website for more information: the cost the work would sell for T: 028 9536 7486 E: [email protected] http://plangov.ulster.ac.uk/governance/convocation.html commercially. The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013

S Graduates in the news W NE Sweet success Academic for Brendan distinction and 27 humanitarian enterprise Matt Alexander was the first Mitchell Scholar to join the MA in Peace and Conflict New Studies in 2003–2004. During his time at Magee he music spent five months working with Irish Aid investigating champion Ulster the relationship between graduate in emergency famine relief BBC Radio 1’s prestigious 10pm–midnight slot and food security efforts is now in the safe hands of BSc Hons Media US cited as Brendan Jamison (Certificate in in Ethiopia in order to Studies graduate Phil Taggart who presents one of Top Foundation Studies Art and Design improve coordination the show with co-host Alice Levine. The show 10 Chief 1999, BA Hons Fine and Applied Arts between the two. features an ‘energetic mix of specialist and and MFA 2004) has claimed a special Marketing upfront new music’ and continues the focus on niche in the corridors of power. He had spent the previous 15 months in Officers in Colombia as a Fulbright Fellow to research bringing new music to mainstream attention Over the past eight years, his sculptures have been widely internal displacement and economic famously instigated by the late John Peel. world exhibited throughout the world with shows in Scotland, development. Wales, England, France, Germany, Austria, Sweden, Italy, America, Canada, New Zealand, India and China. He has Matt founded Ahmsa, a not-for-profit Music has always been Phil’s passion and whilst studying for his degree, Social Media Magazine also been awarded residencies in New Delhi and New organisation concerned with internally he scooped the BBC/Skillset Young Broadcaster of the year award. He began listed US-based Ulster graduate York. In 2009 he was a visiting lecturer at the University of displaced people in Colombia and his career as a helping hand on the award-nominated BBC Introducing in Margaret Molloy (BSc Hons Florida. That same year, a small Jamison work was entered Guatemala. In addition he is co-founder Northern Ireland programme. His tenacity led to him becoming a regular European Studies (Spanish), into the permanent collection of MoMA, New York’s of Red Tierras, a land conflict resolution contributor, offering advice to aspiring musicians, interviewing the great and 1993) in the top ten of its 100 Museum of Modern Art, as part of the international unbound network in Colombia and Guatemala with the good of the music world and generally smooth-talking security guards Chief Marketing Officers on project titled ‘A Book About Death’. In 2010, Jamison was plans to extend its work to Haiti, Bolivia into letting him go backstage to hang out with the stars. Phil stepped up to the Twitter. Molloy’s intellect and commissioned by Native Land & Grosvenor to build sugar and Brazil. He is managing a portfolio of presenter’s microphone for the first time on BBC Radio Ulster’s Across the success have been recognised cube scale models of Tate Modern and NEO Bankside for nearly $4 million (funded by USAID, the Line programme and quickly graduated to providing cover for weekend radio by other organizations. the London Festival of Architecture. The highlight of 2012 EU and Irish Aid) on land conflict resolution presenters on Radio 1. Phil’s promotion to co-host of the station’s flagship Business and Finance was a carved sugar sculpture of Number 10 exhibited inside programmes. To sustain this work he is new music show cements his position as one of the bright stars of national magazine named her as one of 10 Downing Street, London. In September 2012, Jamison employed as Regional Co-ordinator for radio broadcasting. the ‘Most Influential US-Irish was elected as a member of the Royal British Society of Latin America for Mercy Corps, a NGO American Leaders’ and Irish Sculptors. He is also an associate member of the Royal existing to alleviate suffering, poverty America magazine named her Ulster Academy of Arts. and oppression by helping people to build www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01mw1nr as one of the ‘Top 100 Irish secure, productive and just communities. Americans in Business.’ The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013 Honorary Graduates le

p New Year and eo p High achievers Birthday Honours The achievements of leading figures in the honoured worlds of education, science, business, In the New Year Honours for 2013 29 sport and the arts were recognised by the award of honorary degrees in 2012. Professor Emeritus Eileen Evason, currently Vice Chair of the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and Chair of the Standards Committee which has various responsibilities relating to the social security and child support systems in Northern Ireland, was appointed Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for her services to the disadvantaged. Dr Susan Whoriskey Tom Kelly OBE Arlene Cassidy Biotechnology entrepreneur Tom Kelly, one of the best-known Arlene Cassidy, CEO of the charity Professor Emeritus Alan Woodside, who was Director of the Transport and Road Assessment Centre Dr Susan Whoriskey received public relations practitioners in Autism Northern Ireland, received until his retirement in 2012, was appointed Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for services to the honorary degree of Doctor the UK and Ireland, received the the honorary degree of Doctor of higher education and highway engineering in Northern Ireland. of Science for services to the honorary degree of Doctor of the the University for her services to There were also honours for three Visiting Professors: biotechnology industry and University for his services to the autism. entrepreneurship. community. Martin Bradley, former Chief Nursing Officer, appointed Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Bill Flynn CBE Empire for services to nursing. He is a Visiting Professor in the University’s School of Nursing. Paul Smith CBE Andy McMorran OBE Leading Irish-American Dr Bryan Keating was appointed Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for services Belfast-born Paul Smith CBE, Andy McMorran, former principal businessman William ‘Bill’ Flynn, to economic development in Northern Ireland. He is a Visiting Professor of Entrepreneurship in the Ulster founder and chairman of the global of Ashfield Boys’ High School former chairman of Mutual of Business School. light entertainment company in Belfast, received the honorary America, received the honorary Celador Entertainment Limited, degree of Doctor of the University degree of Doctor of Laws for his Michael Smith, former Chief Executive and Managing Director of Titanic Quarter Ltd, appointed Officer of the received the honorary degree of in recognition of his contribution services to peace and reconciliation. Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for services to economic development and urban regeneration in Belfast. Doctor of Science for services to to cross-community development He serves as a Visiting Professor of Urban Regeneration in the University’s School of the Built Environment. media and enterprise. through education and sport. Gary Lightbody Ed Curran OBE PJ O’Grady In the Birthday Honours for 2012 Ed Curran, veteran journalist and PJ O’Grady, retired principal of St former Belfast Telegraph editor-in- Patrick’s, Bearnageeha, received chief, received the honorary degree the honorary degree of Doctor Paul Shepherd, programme director for BSc Hons Radiotherapy and Oncology was appointed as an Officer of of Doctor of Letters in recognition of the University in recognition the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in recognition of his outstanding leadership as Cadet Commandant of of his services to journalism. of his contribution to cross- the 1st Northern Ireland Battalion Army Cadet Force. Paul is also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA). community development through Ruth Laird Dr Len O’Hagan Rachel Allen education and sport. University Council member became a CBE, while honorary graduates and Dr Wendy Austin became CBE and MBE respectively. TV chef, author, journalist and Mohammed Ben Sulayem mother, Rachel Allen received Snow Patrol founding member the honorary degree of Doctor of Mohammed Ben Sulayem, and lead vocalist Gary Lightbody Science for her contribution to Vice-President of the Fédération received the honorary degree of culinary arts. Internationale de l’Automobile Doctor of Letters for services to the (FIA), received the honorary degree music industry. Keep in touch Contact us of Doctor of Science in recognition Danny Murphy http://tinyurl.com/32bc8av Development and Alumni Relations of his work in presenting a modern Want to keep up Rosemary Kelly OBE Office, University of Ulster, Danny Murphy, provincial secretary and progressive image of the Arab with the latest York Street, Belfast and CEO of the Ulster Council of world to a global audience, by Rosemary Kelly OBE received http://tinyurl.com/2w2emra alumni news or find BT15 1ED the GAA, received the honorary promoting good causes, public the honorary degree of Doctor

degree of Doctor of Science in service and education, and by of Letters in recognition of her your classmates? Follow us on Twitter @UlsterUni T: 028 9536 7486 recognition of his contribution to serving as a role model to young sustained and exceptional leadership [email protected] sport and community relations. people across the Middle East. in the field of arts and culture. Or keep an eye on www.ulster.ac.uk/developmentandalumni/

For further information | On our 2012 honorary graduates for, please visit: www.ulster.ac.uk/graduation The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013 le p Class Notes eo p We are sad to note representation of Northern Ireland Professor Avril in film and fiction. These themes Drummond the passing of... informed my own work as a fiction writer (see Departures, University Diploma in of Pittsburgh Press, 1995) and Occupational shaped the content of many of the Therapy, 1983 31 courses I taught as a professor of was awarded a English at Oregon State University. prestigious Fellowship I also am able to serve as a useful of the College critic on a wide range of subjects Christopher Andrews Patricia Caldwell-Lee of Occupational Therapists in Kyle Gawley in the arts, humanities and social MA Journalism, 2011 HND Hotel, Catering and recognition of the outstanding BSc Hons Interactive Multimedia sciences, a skill on which my Institutional Management, 1981 contributions she has made to the Design, 2011 business, Reads Well Editing & not only achieved distinction in profession and to the Association and Student Support Services, is based.” Peter Martin his studies but also landed a job as has had her first book Just College of many years. This is the Currently a Multidisciplinary a trainee cross-platform journalist Say Yes to Life – embracing highest honour that can be awarded Design student, Kyle was selected BA Hons Business Studies, 2004 with UTV. individuation to embrace life by the College. This is not only a as one of 70 international students published by ‘O’Books. The book attending eBootcamp at Stanford His classmate “This is a fantastic opportunity,” says personal commendation for the long explores Carl Jung’s concept of University in April 2012. He won Aaron Shields writes: Chris. “I know many people who standing contribution Avril has made, individuation, i.e. to become who a place after pitching a start-up have struggled to find work after but also further recognition of the “Immediately after graduation, or what we are destined to become idea worked up with Christopher graduation, or at least in the direction contribution to occupational therapy and armed with an intensive course and essentially it validates the Murphy (Senior Lecturer, Interactive they always intended, so I have been made by the University. in French, Peter set off for Paris and need for growth and change. Design) and David Turner (BSc very fortunate. Anyone considering a career with Nissan. Nissan quickly Hons Interactive Multimedia Design, a career in journalism should do the For further information | recognised Peter’s talent and he www.individuationworks.co.uk or 2011). The project is called Get Ulster course for the qualifications moved swiftly through the ranks, follow @PCaldwellLee on Twitter. Invited – an online events promotion and grounding it offers.” culminating in promotion to a senior Ben Cote and ticketing application which was management role in South Africa used to manage the events and ticket late in 2011 and the opening of a Jennifer C Cornell MA Peace and Conflict Studies, 2007 writes: sales at the Ulster Festival of Art & promising new chapter in his life. Design. Kyle has also been working A life that promised so much was MA Peace Studies, 1991 “The Masters program has been on a digital scrapbooking tool, cut short following a car accident in says: invaluable for my career. It qualified Vizuali, for which he was awarded South Africa and Peter passed away “Doing my degree me to work in public service the Manleys design award at last in February aged just 29.” part-time allowed me nationally and internationally and Professor Nadine Foster year’s Interactive Multimedia Design to explore each module helped me attain positions at the final year show. BSc Hons (first class) Physiotherapy, James Grant without haste. As a consequence, Office of the Mayor of Washington, my time at Magee is among my best DC and an international trade 1993 and a DPhil from the Faculty MSc in Education, 1981 ever as a student. The most valuable NGO in Geneva, Switzerland. I of Science in 1998 We are sad to report the death, in lesson I took from the programme have worked with two NGOs in is Professor of Musculoskeletal the summer, of James (Jim) Grant. was to read from the long and Sri Lanka. At the National Peace Health in Primary Care and Born in 1928 in Buncrana, County excellent lists provided only those Council, I used my MA syllabus Director of the Clinical Trials Do you have Donegal, Jim was a very popular titles that interested me, and to to help design a syllabus for a Sri Unit at Keele University. She has an interesting and highly-respected educator, abandon anything that did not hold Lankan university’s peace and been awarded a National Institute spending most of his career as a Tracey Bell my attention. conflict studies program, drafted of Health Research (NIHR) story? teacher of Science and Religious opinion pieces on conflict analysis “This made possible the discovery research Professorship – one of Studies at St Patrick’s High School BSc Hons Communication, and helped create a program on of books on either side of the ones eight awarded to the UK’s most For consideration for Class in Omagh. Captain and President Advertising & Marketing, 2002 pluralism that is still active. Later, for which I’d been searching. promising leaders in medical health Notes, please send your details of Newtownstewart Golf Club, Jim as an independent researcher for has written a book to help comfort Through this process I refined research. The award funds Professor and a good quality photograph never allowed ill health to hold him the Council for Public Policy in children suffering bereavement. The my interest in the contact Foster’s research and research staff to: developmentandalumni@ back. One of the first recipients Colombo, I published a paper book, entitled Love Never Ends, hypothesis, Education for Mutual for five years, testing treatments and ulster.ac.uk of a kidney transplant in Northern on devolution of power that services for primary care patients Ireland, Jim was a steadfast and was launched at the FE McWilliam Understanding, the character drew heavily on my education in with common aches and pains inspirational example to anyone Gallery by the Northern Ireland of grief and the management of Northern Ireland.” including back pain, knee pain and facing failing health. A big man, in Commissioner for Children & Young memory, the role of forgiveness in shoulder pain. every sense, and sadly missed. People, Patricia Lewsley. conflict transformation, and the The Ulster Graduate | Winter 2013 le p Class Notes eo p

Ulster Graduate Issue 36, Winter 2012/13 33 Published by: Development and Alumni Relations Office, University of Ulster, York Street, Belfast BT15 1ED Jordan Henderson Telephone: + 44 (0)28 9536 7486 BSc Hons Interactive Multimedia Email: developmentandalumni@ Design with DAS, 2009 ulster.ac.uk graduated with first class honours www.ulster.ac.uk/ and was awarded the 2009 design developmentandalumni prize for his major project – Small White Bear. Jordan took on work Facebook: http://tinyurl. as a freelance before finding com/32b8av employment at ‘Being Digital’ – a LinkedIn: http://tinyurl. web design studio based in the com/2w2emra Titanic Quarter. Jordan has now Dr Phil Ramsey Twitter: returned to study for the MFA @UlsterUni BA Hons Media Studies 2006, MA “There is a strong University of in Multidisciplinary Design. He International Media Studies 2007 and Ulster connection in my division at says: “The course is the perfect Edited by: PhD Media Studies 2011 UNNC. I am the third person to teach opportunity for me to gain direction Corporate Communications, here having previously worked in Give as you live and to embark on a new adventure recently took up a university post University of Ulster Media Studies at Coleraine, following in setting up my own storytelling in China. He says: “I came to China Dr Andrew White and Dr Ned Rossiter. brand - Tale & Teller.” in January 2012 to start work as a Want to raise money for the University of Ulster Fund – at absolutely NO COST to you? Thousands of shops will donate money when you shop online at www. Design: Lecturer in Digital and Creative Media “It seems to me that Asia should RLA Ireland at the University of Nottingham Ningbo be considered as a serious option for giveasyoulive.com/join/universityofulster. Ulster graduates, although working for China (UNNC). Having taught at Ulster Shopping at Give as you Live generates a donation with every purchase, Print: part-time during and after my PhD, I a Western employer is probably the typically 1%-5% of what you spend. As an added bonus, 50 new shoppers was keen to keep working in higher best option. Negotiating the regulations with a minimum spend of £25 each by 30th June 2013 will result in the Fund GPS Colour Graphics Ltd education. Coming to China offered me in China can be labyrinthine, so having receiving a bonus of £250. a great chance to further my academic English-speaking employees guiding Views expressed are those of the The Fund supports our students through a range of scholarships, including you through the process is invaluable.” contributors and not necessarily career, and to experience a radically those promoting wider participation for low income students and adult different way of life. learners; supporting students experiencing hardship; providing books for the of the University. The University of Ulster regrets that it cannot Juliette Henderson library; and supporting academic and sporting excellence, student innovation, Alumni Request! entrepreneurship and creativity. accept responsibility for any claim MSc Health and Social Care, 2011 whatsoever which may arise out of To register: advertisements carried in good faith. is a Nurse Manager coordinating 1. Go to www.giveasyoulive.com/join/universityofulster the Seychelles Child Development We have received a request for any news of The Ulster Graduate is available Study in which Ulster is a partner. alumna Aideen Scullion (BA Hons Humanities 2. Click “Discover and Download”. online at www.ulster.ac.uk/alumni Juliette is also a qualified nurse (Spanish and French) 1974). 3. Enter your name, and email address to register. and can also be made available, on and midwife. Juliette is working to 4. You can now choose the ‘download’ option and download Give as you request, in alternative formats (e.g. create greater research awareness If you are in touch with Aideen, we have details of Live onto your computer. Remember it is at NO Cost to you, is easy to use, audio, large print and Braille). and promoting evidence-based a friend from those Coleraine days who would very has virtually no impact on your shopping experience and you will directly If you require the magazine in an practice among Seychellois nurses, much like to get back in touch. Please contact: benefit Ulster’s students. alternative format please contact the important efforts in ensuring cost- [email protected] for more information. 5. Alternatively, you can shop on the Give as you Live website and a Alumni Relations Office, contact effective and high-quality healthcare percentage of what you spend will still be donated to the University of details as above. in a developing country. Ulster Fund.