In PICTURES: Laois graduates celebrate at SETU conferrings

Laois natives were among the thousands of graduates to celebrate their recently at the South East Technological University’s (SETU) annual conferring ceremonies. To read more see below photo TO SEE MORE PHOTOS TAKEN BY BROWNE'S PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED TO THE LEINSTER EXPRESS LAOIS LIVE TAP NEXT OR ARROW.

SETU said the achievements of up to 3,600 graduates across its campuses in Waterford, Carlow, and Wexford with the ceremonies mark one of the most special events in the university calendar.

The university says it is a time to recognise the hard work, dedication, and resilience of SETU students whose commitment to their academic careers and student life has culminated in this occasion.

Addressing graduates, Professor Veronica Campbell, SETU President, congratulated the University’s graduating classes.

“SETU’s conferring ceremonies are a celebration of achievement and a reflection of the transformative power of education. Our graduates embody the best of SETU. They are people of knowledge, character, and compassion who will continue to shape a better and fairer world. I encourage you to carry forward SETU’s ethos of empathy, leadership, and service. We wish you every success as you move into the next chapter of your lives,” she said.

Prof Campbell also thanked to the families and friends of graduates for their support and encouragement in helping graduates. She also expressed her thanks to the University’s academic and professional staff.

This year’s conferring ceremonies will also see a record number of 43 PhD graduands conferred across disciplines, the University’s highest number to date. Ceremonies will also feature the presentation of two honorary doctorates in recognition of enduring integrity, leadership, and contributions to Ireland’s cultural and social progress.

John Treacy will be honoured for his remarkable achievements in sport and public service. Beyond athletics, Treacy has served in key leadership roles, including Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council (Sport Ireland), Chair of Concern Worldwide, and Chair of the Port of Waterford Company.

While Elizabeth Riordan-Coppin will be recognised for her lifelong advocacy for human rights and social justice. A survivor of Ireland’s industrial school and Magdalene Laundry system, she has dedicated more than 25 years to campaigning for justice and awareness.

SETU said 2025 has been a momentous year for SETU as significant developments were made in relation to the university’s pharmacy and veterinary medicine programmes. SETU welcomed the official approval of the capital programme supporting the Veterinary Places Activation Programme (VPAP), a significant initiative that will establish a new veterinary school at SETU.

The University’s new Department of Pharmacy also announced the official accreditation of its new five-year Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) programme by the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI). These developments strengthen SETU’s expanding portfolio of professional and health science education.

New programmes have been designed to meet growing regional and national workforce needs, equipping future graduates with the skills and expertise to lead in critical sectors.