Kildare University Professor Katriona O’Sullivan wins Inspiration Award
O'Sullivan, who lectures in psychology at Maynooth and is also a bestselling author, was recognised for her extraordinary journey from adversity to achievement
Maynooth University’s Professor Katriona O’Sullivan has won the Inspiration Award at the 2025 Diversity in Tech Awards. The winners of the 2025 Diversity in Tech Awards (DITA’s) were unveiled at a ceremony in Dublin’s Gibson Hotel.
The event, now in its eighth year, welcomed over 350 leaders from across the global technology sector to honour individuals and organisations driving meaningful change in diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I).
The ceremony recognised the Kildare University Professor with the prestigious award and shared her journey from a childhood shaped by poverty and adversity to becoming a leading academic, psychologist, and bestselling author.
Professor O'Sullivan continues to inspire and challenge barriers to education and opportunity. Most recently she has been an integral leader of the STEM Passport for Inclusion, a groundbreaking initiative opening pathways for thousands of underserved students into STEM education and Ireland’s dynamic technology sector.
Clare Kilmartin, COO of the Diversity in Tech Awards, said: “The 2025 winners represent the very best of the technology community — leaders, innovators, and changemakers who are dismantling barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive future. At a time when DE&I policies are being called into question in some quarters, these awards shine a light on what’s possible when we embrace difference and foster diverse talent. It was an honour to celebrate such inspiring individuals and organisations at this year’s ceremony.”
Also among the evening’s most celebrated honourees was Catherine Doyle, General Manager of Microsoft Ireland, who received the Grace Hopper Award.