Pictures: Kilkenny graduates celebrated at SETU

Pictured at SETU’s conferring ceremony at SETU Arena in Waterford were Alice Brennan, Johnswell County Kilkenny, Katie Tyrell, Dunmore County Kilkenny, and Alice Roche, Fenor, County Waterford, graduating with BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying, SETU | Patrick Browne

placeholder image — Pictured at SETU’s conferring ceremony at SETU Arena in Waterford were Alice Brennan, Johnswell County Kilkenny, Katie Tyrell, Dunmore County Kilkenny, and Alice Roche, Fenor, County Waterford, graduating with BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying, SETU | Patrick Browne

Kilkenny students were among the 4,000 graduates celebrated at South East Technological University's 2026 conferring ceremonies, marking a significant occasion in the University calendar

Kilkenny students were among the 4,000 graduates across Waterford, Carlow and Wexford celebrated at South East Technological University (SETU) at its 2026 conferring ceremonies.

The annual ceremonies mark one of the most significant occasions in the University calendar, recognising the dedication, perseverance and achievements of students completing their academic journeys across a broad range of disciplines.

Addressing graduates, Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, congratulated the Class of 2026 and reflected on the opportunities that lie ahead as they join a global community of more than 100,000 SETU alumni.

Pictured at SETU’s conferring ceremony at SETU Arena in Waterford on Thursday were: Zoe Walsh from Mooncoin, Co Kilkenny, pictured on her graduation day from South East Technological University (SETU) with her sisters Hope and Mackenzie. Zoe graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Intellectual Disability Nursing | Patrick Browne

“Today is a day for both reflection and celebration. Our graduates stand at an exciting point in their lives, equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence to build successful and fulfilling careers, wherever their ambitions may take them,” said Prof Campbell.

“As you begin this next chapter, I encourage you to embrace opportunities, persevere through challenges and remain connected to the University community. The relationships you build and the networks you nurture have the potential to shape not only your own careers, but the industries, communities and regions in which you will make your mark.”

Pictured at SETU’s conferring ceremony at SETU Arena in Waterford were Sarah Walsh from Glenmore, Co Kilkenny graduated from South East Technological University (SETU) with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Creative Computing. She is pictured with mam Jackie, dad Jimmy and sister Nicola | Patrick Browne

This year's ceremonies follow the University's inaugural Alumni Awards, which recognised five exceptional graduates whose achievements, leadership and contributions to society reflect the impact of SETU and its legacy institutions.

Honourees included James O'Connor of Microsoft, Orlaith Ryan, Co-Founder of Shorla Oncology, Donna Tilson of Sun Life, Liam Kenny of John Paul Construction and Cathal Quinlan, founder of Better@Work Management.

Reflecting on their achievements, Prof. Campbell highlighted the importance of opportunity, encouragement and the connections formed during university life.

“Every outstanding career begins somewhere. Our Alumni Award recipients once sat where today's graduates are sitting, looking ahead to the possibilities before them.

“Connection creates opportunity. As members of our growing alumni community, our graduates have the capacity to make a lasting and positive difference, particularly at a time when collaboration is essential to addressing complex social, economic and environmental challenges.”

Recognising a shared achievement

Campbell also acknowledged the contribution of families, friends and SETU staff, recognising the support that enables students to succeed across both full-time and part-time pathways.

“Our graduates have reached this milestone through commitment, hard work and self-belief, supported by the encouragement of those around them. Today is a shared celebration, and I extend my sincere thanks to families, friends and our dedicated academic and professional staff for their invaluable contribution.”