DkIT Science lecturers announced as finalists in TU Dublin’s inaugural TrailblazHER™ Excellence Awards
DkIT lecturers Dr Suzanne Linnane, from Blackrock, Co. Louth and Dr Caroline Gilleran Stephens from Munterconnaught, Co. Cavan were named as finalists for the awards which celebrate exceptional women, changemakers, and allies shaping the future across diverse fields
Dr Suzanne Linnane, Director of DkIT’s Centre for Freshwater and Environmental Studies (CFES) and Dr Caroline Gilleran Stephens, who leads the Environmental Education (EE) research theme within the CFES, and Joanne White, Founder and Director of Women in Construction Ireland and a lecturer in The Built Environment, have been announced as finalists in the national initiative, celebrating women who are redefining excellence, leadership, and innovation across Ireland.
There are twelve categories in the awards, each recognising exceptional women, changemakers, and allies who are shaping the future, from science and technology to education, entrepreneurship, the arts, and community leadership.
Both Dr Suzanne Linnane and Dr Caroline Gilleran Stephens have been nominated in the Sustainability Category in recognition of their passion and dedication to advancing sustainability through education, research and community engagement.
Caroline and Suzanne and are co-founders and co-coordinators of H20 Heroes. The science-based environmental education outreach programme based in DKIT that inspires children to connect with their natural environment, fosters environmental awareness and empowers children to protect their local lakes and rivers.
Speaking about her nomination, Caroline said: “This recognition reflects not just an individual effort, but the collective passion and teamwork that drives ESD and sustainability initiatives at DkIT. Our work is very much community-based, focusing on environmental and sustainability initiatives that aim to build awareness, inspire action and create lasting positive change, both within DkIT and across our wider community. A heartfelt thank you to the organisers of the TrailblazeHER Excellence Awards at TU Dublin for celebrating so many amazing women who are leading positive change across education and beyond.”
Suzanne added: “For us, sustainability is all about connection - to our environment, our communities, and to one another - working together to create change that lasts. This recognition reflects the passion and teamwork that underpins everything we do, from our work at the Centre for Freshwater and Environmental Studies to our collaborations with partners across Ireland and beyond, and with the many inspiring schools we engage with through our outreach initiatives. We are so proud to be part of a wider community dedicated to sustainability, education, and positive change. Thank you to TrailblazHER™ at TU Dublin for celebrating so many incredible women who are making a real difference across education and beyond. It’s a privilege to do what we love alongside people who care so deeply about our planet and our communities.”
The TrailblazHER™ Excellence Awards, part of TU Dublin’s flagship TrailblazHER™ gender equality programme, honour individuals whose determination, creativity, and impact are paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative Ireland.
This year’s awards highlight 51 finalists across 12 categories, each exemplifying leadership, vision, and purpose. The winners will be unveiled at the TrailblazHER™ Excellence Awards Ceremony on November 6th in TU Dublin’s Concert Hall, a celebration of Ireland’s most dynamic and trailblazing women and allies.
