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Issue 32 SPRING 2010 The magazine for alumni and friends
of the University of Ulster
University
Announces
New Chancellor
University News
Events and Reunions
People
Arts
Supported by
http://alumni.ulster.ac.uk
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ISSUE 32 | SPRING 2010
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR
contents
Welcome to issue 32 of The Ulster Graduate.
university news
As always we have included a range of news items and
stories to keep you up to date with developments at the New University Chancellor - James Nesbitt 2
University and with what our former students are doing now. Green Light for Magee Expansion 3
Top Marketing Students Recognised 4
I have just returned from a short visit to Canada and Lifelong Learning for NI Graduates 5
the USA, where I and my colleagues had the pleasure of Honorary Graduates 7
meeting with a number of alumni now living on the other Celebrating 160 years of Art and Design in Belfast 8
side of the Atlantic (see page 15). It was a great reminder Health Research at Ulster 9
that our alumni community is truly worldwide – we now
have alumni in 121 countries.
innovation
We have also held a number of events closer to home,
including a very successful reunion for students from the University Scoops Top UK Award 10
Belfast campus, held at Ormeau Baths Gallery in Belfast Spin-Out company wins top business award 10
and a reception in the House of Commons in London. For Innovators Triumph at £25k awards 11
information on past and future events see pages 15-18.
We now have over 3,000 members of our online development and alumni news
community – Ulster Alumni Online. If you haven’t yet
registered you can do so at http://alumni.ulster.ac.uk. Alumni Fund Awards for Academic Excellence 12
You can use the site to check and update the details we Alumni Fund 13
hold on you, contact other alumni members, book for Christmas Reception with the Conservators 14
events and see photographs of past events and reunions. Development Event at the OBG 14
I hope that you enjoy reading this issue.
alumni reunions and events
Best wishes
North American Events 15
Art and Design Reunion 16
Alumni Relations Manager Seventh Alumni Golf Challenge 17
Published by House of Commons Event 18
The Alumni Relations Office, University of Ulster,
Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, BT37 0QB.
people
Tel: 08 700 400 700 (Switchboard), or
028 9036 8350 (Direct Line) Fax: 028 9036 6085 Richard Moore 19
Email: alumni@ulster.ac.uk Brian McLaughlin 20
Web: http://alumni.ulster.ac.uk Classnotes 21
First Trust Bank/ Distinguished Graduate Award 27
Editor: Sue Rees, Alumni Relations Manager
Design: Lairdesign
Print: W&G Baird arts
Views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily of The Little Box of Wonders 29
the University. The University of Ulster regrets that it cannot accept Connect, Share, Create 29
responsibility for any claim whatsoever which may arise out of
advertisements carried in good faith.
Ulster Festival of Art and Design 30
Empty Spaces Project 30
Cover Photograph
New Chancellor James Nesbitt - sport
see page 2 for full story.
Special Visitors 31
Sports and Golf Scholars 32
the ulster graduate l spring 2010 1
university news
New University Chancellor - James Nesbitt
The new Chancellor of the University very impressive and it is great to see the
is to be the acclaimed actor success Ulster students have enjoyed in
James Nesbitt. recent years across a number of sports
including athletics, soccer, rugby, Gaelic
The 45-year-old father of two will succeed Games, basketball, hockey and golf and
former London Lord Mayor, Sir Richard to see the wonderful sports facilities it has
Nichols who is standing down after eight built including the state-of-the-art High
years in the post. Performance Centre at Jordanstown.
The chair of the University’s ruling Council, “As an actor, I know how important the
Gerry Mallon confirmed the University had Riverside Theatre has been for Coleraine
offered the star of ‘Cold Feet’, ‘Murphy’s but the University has also shown a
Law’ and ‘Bloody Sunday’ the position and tremendous commitment to the arts in
he had accepted. general whether it is through the work
of the Foyle Arts Centre or the School
“We’re delighted James, a former of Art and Design in Belfast or its active
student at the University and an honorary support for Derry/Londonderry’s bid to
graduate, has agreed to take on this very Former Chancellor Sir Richard Nichols. become UK city of culture in 2013 – a
important role,” Mr Mallon said. cause I very much support. And at a
penned BBC series ‘Murphy’s Law’, ‘Jekyll’, time when Northern Ireland is looking
“James is taking over as Chancellor at ‘The Passion’ and the Iraq War drama to forge a bright economic future, the
an exciting time for Ulster and will bring ‘Occupation’. On the big screen, he has quality of Ulster’s research and innovation,
considerable energy, dynamism and appeared in Michael Winterbottom’s ‘Jude’ its investment in science, technology,
commitment to this post. This is also and ‘Welcome to Sarajevo’, the hit comedy engineering and maths, its provision of
the first time there has been a Northern ‘Waking Ned Devine’, Paul Greengrass’s professionally accredited degree courses
Ireland-born Chancellor of the University. ‘Bloody Sunday’, Woody Allen’s ‘Match and its commitment to widening access to
Point’ and last year opposite Liam Neeson education is inspiring.
“He succeeds an eminent and respected in Oliver Hirschbiegel’s post-Troubles drama
Chancellor in the form of Sir Richard ‘Five Minutes of Heaven’. “I am very much looking forward to
Nichols who has served the University taking on this role and doing what I can to
with great distinction since his installation The actor, who is a passionate fan of both advance the University of Ulster.”
in May 2002. We very much appreciate Manchester United and Coleraine FC,
the time and the commitment Sir Richard has been in Serbia shooting a movie of Vice Chancellor Professor Richard
devoted to the University, its staff and Shakespeare’s ‘Coriolanus’ directed by and Barnett also welcomed James
students and we wish him and his family starring Ralph Fiennes and also featuring Nesbitt’s appointment.
well for the future.” Brian Cox, Gerard Butler and
Vanessa Redgrave. “We are very pleased James has agreed to
In 2003, Broughshane-born James Nesbitt take on this important leadership role for
received the honorary degree of Doctor Taking a break from filming, he said: “I am the University,” he said.
of Letters (D Litt) from the University for deeply honoured to have been asked by
Services to Drama. He had previously the University of Ulster to be its Chancellor. “I have no doubt he will be a wonderful
studied French at Ulster but left to pursue ambassador for Ulster and will serve the
a career in acting by studying drama at the “It is a good time to be joining the University with the same distinction as Sir
Central School of Speech and Drama University as it embarks on two major Richard and other Chancellors before him.
in London. development plans in Greater Belfast I would like to thank Sir Richard and Lady
and the North West which could make Nichols for everything they have done for
After a breakthrough role in Peter a significant difference to the academic, the University and wish them well.”
Chelsom’s movie ‘Hear My Song’ about the cultural, sporting and economic
tenor Joseph Locke, he was propelled to renaissance of the cities of Belfast and As he stepped down from the role, Sir
stardom when he landed the lead role in Derry/Londonderry and also Northern Richard Nichols told the Court of the
ITV’s comedy drama ‘Cold Feet’ alongside Ireland as a whole. University he looked back on his eight
Helen Baxendale, John Thomson and years at Ulster with a lot of “personal pride
Fay Ripley. “As a native of Coleraine I know how and admiration” at what the institution
much the University contributes to the had achieved. “I have been very privileged
Over the years, he has built up an community there and its unwaivering indeed to be in this post in these busy and
impressive body of work on stage, commitment to my hometown. sometimes difficult times and look forward
television and movies, mixing comedy to hearing about the further successes of
with more hard hitting material. This has “The University’s investment in Northern the University, its staff and students in the
included lead roles in the Colin Bateman Ireland’s sporting talent has also been years to come,” he added.
2 the ulster graduate l spring 2010
university news
Green Light for Magee Expansion
The University’s development plan Welcoming the Foyle and Londonderry Assembly. With the news that we have
for Magee reached a significant College agreement, Vice-Chancellor secured an option on these sites – and
milestone when the University Professor Richard Barnett said: once government gives us permission to
signed an Option Agreement with recruit more students – we can commence
Foyle and Londonderry College to “The agreement signed here today is an our build-up of student numbers.
secure 30 acres of land for expansion. important milestone in the delivery of
our development plans for Magee, the “Our aim is to help deliver the economic
The Northland Road lands – which city and the region. and cultural regeneration of the North
will become vacant when Foyle and West, injecting vitality, energy and
Londonderry College migrates across the “The University has always made it clear that creativity into the region, assisting its
Foyle to its new site at Clooney – will a pre-condition for the expansion at Magee transformation into a dynamic cultural,
offer much-needed space for the growth was the acquisition of additional land and creative and educational destination.
of third-level education in the city. we have submitted a bid to expand our
student numbers which we hope will receive “Today’s agreement opens the door to
Ulster’s growth strategy for Magee all party support in the Northern Ireland a new era in the life of Magee.”
concentrates on developing and sustaining
high-quality, regionally relevant provision
with an emphasis on professional
education for professional life.
The University has ambitious plans for
development of the campus, including:
n The creation of an Institute of
Sustainable Technologies
n The creation of an Institute of Health
and Wellbeing
n Expansion of Computing, Electronics
and Software
n Expansion of Creative Technologies
and Animation
Celebrating the agreement were Professor Jim Allen, Provost of Magee; Jack Magill, Headmaster of Foyle
n Expansion in Business and and Londonderry College; Professor Deirdre Heenan, Dean of Academic Development at Magee, and Robin
Professional Services Young, Chairman of Foyle and Londonderry College Board of Governors.
UNIVERSITY BRIEFS CONGRESSMAN ON DEVELOPMENT PLANS
A leading member of the US at George Washington University as
Congress was just one of the well as hosting an alumni event in the
people briefed on the University’s National Press Club.
Greater Belfast and North West
Development Plans during a recent Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Alastair
visit by senior management to Adair used visits to Ottawa, Boston and
North America. New York to inform US and Canadian
friends of the University and alumni on
Massachusetts Democratic the plans to revamp the Belfast campus
Congressman Richard E Neal and chair at York Street and expand Magee.
of the influential Friends of Ireland
Group in Congress played host to a On their return to Northern Ireland,
meeting with Vice-Chancellor Professor Congressman Neal with Professor Barnett. Professor Barnett and Professor Adair
Richard Barnett during his visit to also met on the Belfast campus US
Washington DC. Education, the Northern Ireland Bureau, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s
the World Affairs Council and the British economic envoy to Northern Ireland
Among those Professor Barnett also met and Irish Embassies. Declan Kelly to discuss the development
were staff from Connecticut Senator plans and Ulster’s strong performance
Christopher Dodd’s office, the US The Vice-Chancellor also toured the in the UK’s recent research
State Department, US Department of campus and met with senior management assessment exercise.
the ulster graduate l spring 2010 3
university news
Top Marketing Students Recognised
Six outstanding marketing students “This is a day of celebration which brings Richard Kee,
were recognised for their exceptional together our students, family members, MSc Marketing and Entrepreneurship,
achievements at a special ceremony academic staff and sponsors.” from Dundonald
at the Jordanstown campus in Wrightbus Award for Excellence -
January 2010. The winners were: Best Overall Final Year Student
The annual Marketing Excellence Charlotte Jess, Dominic Darby,
Awards celebrate the dedication and BSc Hons Marketing, from Carrickfergus MSc Agri-food Business Development,
hard work of marketing students from Marketing Institute of Ireland Award from Belfast
the class of 2008/2009. for Excellence - Best Overall Final Moy Park Award for Excellence -
Year Student Best Overall Student
Charlotte Jess, who won Best Overall Chartered Institute of Marketing
Final Year Student and Best BSc Award for Excellence - Best Dissertation
Dissertation, acquired the position
Claire McCamley,
of E-Marketing Executive at Randox
MSc Marketing, from Maghera
Laboratories in Crumlin just a few
Envision Management Consultants
months after graduating last year.
Award for Excellence - Best Dissertation
Professor Rodney McAdam, Head Catherine Robinson,
of the Department of Marketing, BSc Hons Marketing, from Ballymena
Entrepreneurship and Strategy said: Hastings Hotels Award for Excellence -
Best Overall Second Year Student
“All of these award winners were
outstanding students. For those who Emma Hawthorne,
left university last summer, we are glad BSc Hons Marketing, from Carrickfergus
to hear that many of them have gained Property News Award for Excellence -
employment in marketing. Best Overall E-Marketing Student Award winner Charlotte Jess.
Graduate into Business
University of Ulster graduates are offered the chance One such Ulster graduate entrepreneur is Dr Andy Barr. As
to turn their business dreams into reality with an a child, Andy was captivated by the story of the Six Million
exciting new initiative called Graduate Into Business. Dollar Man, astronaut Steve Austin. This fascination
influenced both his academic and career choices and
The Graduate Into Business Programme addresses Marturion was founded in March 2001 to offer innovation
key issues of why graduates wait to start their own services to companies who need electronics and software
business, often delaying the process for up to 10 years design for new or existing products, with particular focus
after graduation. The programme enables graduates to on the medical device sector.
match their skill level with an appropriate career in self-
employment and entrepreneurship. Marturion now employs thirty people and trades out of
Knockmore Hill Industrial Park in Lisburn, providing goods
A range of support services are on offer, including and services to markets as widespread as the Far East,
mentoring in specialist areas such as financial Africa and the Americas. Andy is now proactive in sharing
management, commercial law, sales development and his experiences and encouraging local entrepreneurship.
resource management. Networking events, market
research services and incubation facilities are also offered, Graduate Into Business is funded by Lisburn City Council
together with an opportunity to bid for funding in a and the EU Sustainable Competitiveness Programme
unique Dragons Den style forum. Not only does the NI 2007 – 2013, and delivered by Lisburn Enterprise
programme assist in the business start up phase, it also Organisation. Full programme details are available from
supports existing graduate entrepreneurs with the growth Seonaid@lisburn-enterprise.co.uk or log on to
and development of their business. www.lisburngraduateintobusiness.co.uk
4 the ulster graduate l spring 2010
university news
Lifelong Learning for Northern Ireland Graduates
In the 21st century, job patterns have changed and throughout their working life. The ideal vehicle for those who wish
the concept of a job for life is one that seems a underpinning ethos of successful to enhance their knowledge and
thing of the past. There is an identified need for lifelong learning is based on the skills within a professional practice
more flexible and responsive workforce development, modular and progressive acquisition context. Offered exclusively by
including a requirement for upskilling to ensure of skill, enabling individuals in the the University it forms an integral
maximum performance and success. Institutions, workplace to gain recognition part of the Graduate Acceleration
including Ulster, are increasingly seeking to develop for their learning at a pace that Programme (GAP) www.gapni.com
employability attributes as an explicit and embedded suits them and their employers.
part of academic learning that an individual can Flexible part-time provision that GAP is a 26 week professional
continue to develop in order to remain employable is accessible at a time and place placement programme, supported
to suit the individual (and which by DEL which enables graduates
enables collaborative activities where who are eligible for job seekers
individuals can share experiences allowance to enhance their practical
and evaluate achievements) is and academic skills. Professional
therefore central to the success of skills in practice are a central theme
any programme that promotes the of the programme and one which is
development of professional practice. embedded in the new course at Ulster.
The University is committed to The Graduate Certificate in
providing opportunities for students Professional Practice is a flexible
to develop the skills, knowledge course with 60 credits enabling
and personal attributes which will alumni to extend their current
enhance their employability on knowledge and skills base. The
graduation. Ulster places particular course consists of two core modules
emphasis on integrating academic which support professional practice
content with professional practice to and two optional modules such
consolidate and stimulate learning, as Enterprise, Leadership and
by allowing students the opportunity Change, Information Technology,
to reflect on the relevance of course Communications or Managing
content and to put what they have Behaviour. Ultimately the course
learned into practice. provides a highly developed
learning framework which will allow
With these values in mind we turn to individuals to develop their overall
our alumni. As a result of economic job readiness, as well as challenging
recession there has been a significant and enhancing higher order skills
downturn in the number of graduate within a professional context. Study
employment opportunities available can be undertaken at any of the
across the UK. Research has four campuses.
shown that for those just entering
the labour market, a prolonged The majority of the content is online
spell of unemployment can leave to enable flexibility alongside the
For more information contact us on: permanent scars, making individuals professional placement, so while
028 9266 1160 less employable throughout their
working lives. The University is
there are a few face to face sessions
the majority of the work can be
seeking to minimise this economic completed at an individual pace and
risk to graduates and the wider from any location.
region in Northern Ireland, through
an innovative programme which has When graduates sign up for GAP,
been developed with key, strategic automatic access to a placement
partners. Working with a range of database is granted. Local employers
local employers, the Department of have provided a wide range of
Employment and Learning (DEL), graduate level opportunities and
Business in the Community and QUB, are selecting successful applicants
a new graduate initiative has been through a competitive recruitment
launched which seeks to preserve process. For those interested,
and strengthen the knowledge and opportunities for both graduates
skills of our graduates. and employers are available.
www.lisburngraduateintobusiness.co.uk The Graduate Certificate in For more information contact:
Professional Practice provides an lifelonglearning@ulster.ac.uk
the ulster graduate l spring 2010 5
university news
Research Team Tackles Taxing Problems in Egypt
A team of researchers from the and training programmes to support tax issues in developing countries.
School of the Built Environment are the project.
set to transform Egypt’s outdated Other recent international collaborations
tax system. Dr McCluskey said: have included work in Uganda,
Tanzania, South Africa, the Philippines,
Dr William McCluskey, who graduated “This project forms part of major Kosovo and Mauritius.
with DPhil (published work in economic reform designed to radically
Engineering) in 1999 and Dr Peadar modernise Egypt’s outdated property tax Dr McCluskey added:
Davis, who graduated with BSc Hons system and bring it into line with
Geography in 1991, will be working standards of international best practice. “Helping policy makers produce better
with international consultants Booz policy is a key element to help policy
and Co to help implement ambitious “Dr Davis has already helped design an delivery. Our work in property tax policy
economic reform and systematic implementation framework which will be in developing countries has the capacity
transformation of tax administration. initially introduced in Cairo before being to make a positive difference to
rolled out throughout the rest of people’s lives.
They will be undertaking preliminary the country.”
research into the property market and “We look forward to making a positive
appraisal system as well as providing This project sees the University team continue contribution to the policies and
technical support, knowledge transfer to provide innovative solutions to property practices in Egypt.”
Ulster Quake Expert’s Plea - Environmental Sciences Research Institute.
He and his group rapidly analysed the
M9.2 earthquake that triggered the Indian
“Future Need Not Look Like Haiti” Ocean 2004 Boxing Day tsunami and
alerted the world to the threat of another
large quake in the Sumatra region of the
World-renowned geophysicist international community and the
Indian Ocean 11 days before it struck.
Professor John McCloskey has international NGOs is enormous.”
appealed to the international
”All the indicators are pointing in the same
community to prepare for an The Haiti catastrophe coincided with
direction for western Sumatra. In this
earthquake and possible tsunami in publication in Nature Geoscience of a study
case there is complete agreement that it
western Indonesia. by Professor McCloskey and international
will be very strong, probably bigger than
colleagues of an earthquake that struck
magnitude 8.5, dwarfing the energy release
The professor, who is an expert on Padang, western Sumatra, in September
in the Haitian quake. We also cannot say
earthquakes in the Sumatra region of 2009, killing more than 1,000 people.
for sure what size the tsunami will be but
Indonesia, first issued the plea in January
as governments and agencies scrambled They concluded it was not the ‘great it has the potential to be very destructive –
to send aid to the stricken people of earthquake’ that earth scientists have been maybe even worse than 2004.
Haiti, devastated by a 7.0-magnitude waiting for but it may have made the next
earthquake that claimed more than massive earthquake more likely. Their “We must work urgently to prepare for
200,000 lives. warning and Professor McCloskey’s call this earthquake if we are not to witness
to governments and non-governmental again the awful scenes of children dying
He explained: organisations to take urgent preparatory for want of a few stitches or a cast for a
action to save lives rather than waiting broken leg. The prospect of more children
“The future need not look like Haiti. We until disaster strikes, received wide media lying on hospital floors with no pain relief
know that a big earthquake will happen coverage internationally. and without any medical help at all is truly
off western Sumatra. Science is not able horrific. How many lives could we save if
to say exactly when and we might have “The Padang earthquake, the Haiti disaster the international community were prepared
years or even decades to prepare, but it and now the tragedies in Chile and Turkey properly for the next catastrophe?
could happen much sooner. Now is the underline the importance of preparation.
time to prepare for the event, not the There are many things that can be done to “It is an international disgrace that we
day it happens. reduce the impact of earthquakes. Many appear not to have made the smallest
of these are low-tech methods that have progress in preparation. If we want to
“Given the carnage of the Haiti been tried and tested.” claim to be civilised we need to ensure
earthquake and the slowness of the that we never see these scenes again.
international response, the responsibility Professor McCloskey is Head of the Let’s make our motto: ‘We will do
on the Indonesian government, the Geophysics Research Group, within the better next time’”.
6 the ulster graduate l spring 2010
university news
Go green,
Ulster urges rural firms
Child Poverty Honorary
Rural businesses are being encouraged
in Northern Graduates
to exploit renewable energy sources
whilst reducing costs and growing Ireland
their company with the help of
University experts. The number of families in Northern
Ireland living in persistent poverty
is more than double that in Great
Researchers from the Ulster Business
Britain, according to new research
School are taking part in a European-wide
by leading child poverty experts,
project investigating the challenges facing
Social Policy lecturer, Goretti
rural areas and their dependency on
Horgan and Marina Monteith from
fossil fuels.
Save the Children (NI).
Dr Norry McBride, Derek Bond and Dr
Their report, What can we do to
Elaine Ramsey will be working with small
tackle child poverty in Northern
to medium-sized businesses in rural areas
Ireland found that persistent poverty
across Northern Ireland over the next three in Northern Ireland (21% before
years to help them develop innovative housing costs) is more than double
renewable energy solutions which are Daniel Libeskind was the first recipient of
that in Great Britain (9%). The report
available locally. the new Doctor of Fine Art (DFA) on 11
explores some of the challenges
November 2009 at the Belfast campus.
facing the Northern Ireland Assembly
“The devastating effect that global as it tries to meet its target of halving
warming is having on our environment childhood poverty by 2010 and
means that all European countries will have eradicating it completely by 2020.
to reduce their dependency on imported
fuel and make greater commitments to According to Goretti Horgan, the legacy
the use of renewable energy sources of the Troubles is very apparent with
that generate fewer greenhouse gas the highest levels of persistent poverty
emissions,” explains Dr McBride. in areas like West Belfast, Bogside,
Brandywell and Creggan – all of which
“Like many other European regions, rural were very affected by the conflict.
communities in Northern Ireland are
currently facing significant challenges as a Almost three quarters of children
result of their dependence on fossil fuels. in persistent poverty live in a small
number of wards with a high
“Through this Micro Energy to Rural concentration of child poverty. The
Enterprise Project we will investigate and authors are concerned that young Dr Gerry Burns, former Pro-Chancellor and
evaluate the opportunities that will enable people growing up today in the most Chairman of the University Council, was
rural businesses to generate renewable disadvantaged areas are living in areas awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of
energy using waste products on a scale where the conflict was at its height Laws in December 2009.
that is viable and economically feasible.” and the ripple effect is still being felt.
Ms Horgan continues:
“Qualitative research shows that there
is a layer of young people growing
up in persistent poverty in these areas
who are socially excluded – even
where social deprivation is at the
highest level.
“These young people are most
vulnerable and at risk of falling prey
to paramilitary organisations, drug
pushers and petty criminals. There
is an urgent need to help them by
reducing income poverty and material Professor Roy Spence, former Pro-Chancellor,
deprivation in these areas.” was awarded the honorary degree of
Dr Norry McBride, Derek Bond and Dr Elaine Ramsey Doctor of Laws in December 2009.
the ulster graduate l spring 2010 7
university news
Celebrating 160 Years of growth of Northern Ireland’s culture.
“During the difficult times of the late
Art and Design in Belfast 20th century the School acted as a
crucial lifeline for artists and designers in
Northern Ireland.
Two new books celebrating 160 helped shape our educational and our
“Over the past 40 years in particular,
years of the School of Art and physical environment.”
students and staff at the York Street
Design were published recently - A
campus have made a major contribution
School of Design for Belfast 1849- The book was launched at a special
to the cultural life of the region in
1960 by Mike Catto and The School graduation ceremony in November 2009
fine arts, applied arts, design and
of Art and Design 1960 – 2009 by as world renowned architect Daniel
more recently through collaborative
Liam Kelly. Libeskind received an honorary degree
work in the innovative new School of
in recognition of outstanding services to
Architecture and Design.”
Ulster lecturer and broadcaster Mike global architecture and design.
Catto’s book outlines the history of
the famous School of Design – the Professor Kelly added:
founding school of the University of
The School of Art and
“This publication is an account of the
Ulster – from its humble beginnings Design 1960 – 2009 Art College and how it became the
in three rooms in Belfast in 1849 to
the early 1960s when it became the School of Art and Design. It is the tale
Professor of Irish Visual Culture, Liam
autonomous and province-wide Ulster of two buildings and the absorption
Kelly, brings the story up to date, outlining
College of Art and Design. of a formally independent college into
developments from the 1960s to the
the university system, the resulting
present day in The School of Art and
“The format of the book, which is changes in teaching and learning, and
Design 1960 – 2009.
lavishly illustrated throughout, looks at the establishment of art and design as a
the development of the school from its credible research discipline.”
Professor Kelly’s book was launched at
inception as the Government School of the Ormeau Baths Gallery during a series
Design to its position by 1960 as one of events hosted by the University to The School of Art and Design 1960
of the most modern and pre-eminent recognise the 160th anniversary including a - 2009 by Professor Liam Kelly and A
centres for art, design and craft in the retrospective exhibition featuring work from School of Design for Belfast 1849 - 1960
United Kingdom,” said Mike. acclaimed artists connected with the School. by Mike Catto are both available from
the Alumni Relations Office, price £15.
“There were only seven headmasters Professor Ian Montgomery, Dean of
over those 111 years, and the book the Faculty of Art, Design and the Built Padraig Coyle talks with Mike Catto
shows how each of those heads shaped Environment said: about his new book, A School of Design
the policies and practices of the school. for Belfast. To listen or download go to:
From Claude Lorraine Nursey in 1849 “For 160 years the School of Art and http://news.ulster.ac.uk/podcasts/
to James Warwick who became the first Design has reflected the changes and CattoBook.mp3
Dean of Arts at the Ulster College in the
Northern Ireland Polytechnic in 1971, the
headmasters had enormous influence
on both teaching within the school and
with local manufacturers, especially in
the linen and printing trades.”
He added:
“Significantly, from the early years
of the 20th century until the 1960s
the school also included courses in
architecture. Under the headmastership
of Ivor Beaumont – himself an architect
and designer – the school became well
known for the integration of all the
arts with architecture. Now that the
University has re-introduced architecture
into its degree programme the pattern
has come full circle and this book clearly
reveals how these artists, designers,
craftspeople and architects have all
8 the ulster graduate l spring 2010university news
Health Research at Ulster
treating the diseases ranging from
Alzheimer’s and stroke, to autism,
wound healing and limb formation.
Staff across the University are diabetes is a risk factor for developing
making a substantial contribution Alzheimer’s Disease, the most common Meanwhile, the Institute of Nursing
to international healthcare cause of dementia in the UK. Ulster’s Research has begun work on a four-
research. Research Groups covering Diabetes Research Group (DRG) has year EU funded study into continence
Neuroscience, Vision Science, successfully developed a range of care in nursing homes. The project is
Nursing, Diabetes and Biomedical novel drugs designed to control type 2 a partnership with the Royal College
Sciences are working to develop diabetes, and the DRG is collaborating of Nursing Research Institute at the
new treatments for diseases and with the Neuroscience Research Group to University of Warwick, Manchester
improve patient care. investigate this link. Business School, Fontys University in the
Netherlands, the Karolinska Institute
Scientists in the Diabetes Research Dr Christian Holscher, who heads up the in Sweden, University College Cork,
Group are working with NUI Galway, Neuroscience Research Group, has been University of Alberta in Canada and the
HSE West in the Republic of Ireland and awarded an Invest Northern Ireland Proof of University of Adelaide in Australia.
the Western Health and Social Care Concept grant to investigate the properties
Trust in Northern Ireland to create a of these novel drugs for the treatment The aim of the partnership is to
collaborative cross-border partnership of Alzheimer’s and other neurological translate research into real patient care.
in diabetes related research. The new disorders, and the University currently
Atlantic Alliance for Cooperation on has two patents pending worldwide. This Research from the Vision Science
Research into Diabetes (Atlantic-ACORD) groundbreaking research could lead to a Research Group has revealed that
initiative brings together patients, major breakthrough in the treatment of children in Northern Ireland are up to
clinicians and researchers to develop patients suffering from these diseases. three times more likely to be long-
innovative solutions to problems related sighted than children living in other
to the growing problem of diabetes. Researchers from the School of Biomedical parts of the world.
Over 65,000 adults and 1,000 children Sciences are undertaking groundbreaking
in Northern Ireland are receiving DNA research to help in the treatment Over 1000 children from different
treatment for diabetes, and every year and prevention of diseases. They are backgrounds and different sectors of the
4,000 new cases are diagnosed. examining the atomic structures of DNA community took part in the study over
knots using a method called Nuclear a three year period. The team is now
Participants include dieticians, Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy in revisiting the children to see how their
podiatrists, diabetes specialist nurses, IT conjunction with teams from the Institute eyes have changed for the second phase
specialists and psychologists. The study for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences from of the Northern Ireland Childhood
themes cover some of the key needs Kyoto University in Japan and the National Errors Refraction Study.
for patients in the region and will form Institute of Chemistry from Slovenia.
the initial focus of further collaborative The study is being carried out in
research proposals. One of the aims of this type of research collaboration with the Aston Eye Study
is to find the cause behind, and offer in Birmingham and is funded by the UK
Recent research has shown that solutions to, the best possible way of College of Optometrists.
New Global Markets for Health Technology Spin-out
A University healthcare technology The Vitalsens device is made up of a to software residing on a pc or laptop in
spin-out company, Intelesens, is set to disposable electrode patch and a reusable the wearer’s home or in a hospital ward.
expand into new global markets after clip-on transmitter, and offers a low- This vital health information can then
receiving CE regulatory approval for cost technology solution to help in the be accessed by medical professionals
its life-saving wireless health monitor management of care for both chronically either locally or remotely, and appropriate
product, Vitalsens. ill patients at home, as well as monitoring treatments delivered rapidly.
the health of both in-patients and out-
CE marking is a mandatory European patients attending hospital. “The CE accreditation is an important step in
approval for medical devices to indicate the growth of the company.
conformity with the essential requirements Intelesens Chief Executive Michael
set out in European Directives. This Caulfield said: “The next step is to gain US Food and
milestone opens up extensive new markets Drug Administration approval for the
in Europe and South-East Asia to the “Data relating to the wearer’s health, product. That will open up the enormous
Belfast firm, whose products build on including heart rate, ecg, temperature US market to us, taking our business –
sensor technologies developed by the and levels of activity are measured in the built on technology developed in Northern
company’s founders at the University. chest area and transmitted via Bluetooth Ireland – to a whole new level.”
the ulster graduate l spring 2010 9innovation
University Scoops Top UK Award
“It is wonderful to see that the
company and academic partnership
with Ulster has gained recognition
for the important work that they do.
I would like to thank the sponsors,
including Invest Northern Ireland and
AEA PLC.”
KTP is funded by the Technology
Strategy Board and other government
organisations, including Invest NI.
For further information please contact
Caroline McCabe, telephone
028 7137 5236 or email
c.mccabe@ulster.ac.uk.
From left: James Leckey, from James Leckey Design, Claire Wright, University of Ulster graduate Associate,
and Alison Porter-Armstrong, Senior Lecturer in Rehabilitation Sciences.
Spin-Out
The University has picked up two
prestigious accolades for excellence
The Partnership, which had already
made history by being the first ever company
wins top
at the Knowledge Transfer Partnership award to be made to an
Partnership (KTP) awards Occupational Therapist in the UK,
ceremony in London. blended Ulster’s occupational therapy
At the gala ceremony, Ulster’s
Partnership between the School of
skills with the firm’s expertise in
designing mobility aids for children
with disabilities.
business
Health Sciences and healthcare firm
James Leckey Design Ltd won the top
prize - the Best KTP in the UK Award.
Dr Alison Porter-Armstrong, Senior
Lecturer in Rehabilitation Sciences and
award
The University Associate was Ulster academic lead on the project, said: University spin-out company Sophia
graduate Clare Wright, BSc Hons Search has won one of the top awards
Occupational Therapy 1994. Clare is an “We are absolutely thrilled at winning at InterTradeIreland’s all-island
experienced occupational therapist who the award. The accolade reflects the Seedcorn Business Competition.
gained a Masters in Clinical Research University vision of being known for
in 2008 while working as a Student excellence, innovation and regional Sophia Search – a thriving technology
Associate on the project and who now engagement. This award encompasses business - was crowned the best high growth
works for James Leckey Design as a all three elements.” company among firms from all regions of
Clinical Research Manager. the Republic and Northern Ireland.
Caroline McCabe, KTP
A second award was made to University Manager explained: Chief Executive Dr David Patterson and
Associate Eamon Morgan who picked co-founder Dr Vladmir Dobrynin took
up the Business Leader of Tomorrow “In KTPs, Associates are supervised by home the €100,000 prize from the awards
Award for his current KTP with Foyle specialist academics while they work ceremony held in Dublin.
Food Group Limited. with firms on industrial and commercial
projects. The University has developed Dr Patterson, who is Senior Lecturer in
After the awards the judges said the a long term mutually beneficial Computer Science, said:
partnership with James Leckey Design relationship with the company and we
“Winning the competition is a tremendous
was “the most rounded Partnership look forward to working with many
boost for our business.
that clearly demonstrated an effective more organisations in the future.”
relationship between the company and
“Being selected as overall high growth
the University. It embodies everything Tim Brundle, Director of
winner will bring excellent validation and
that the KTP stands for”. Innovation said:
credibility to our business plan and put us
on a new platform with investors.”
10 the ulster graduate l spring 2010innovation
Director of Innovation Tim Brundle said:
“This is the highest accolade for a Innovators Triumph at £25k Awards
technology company in Ireland, and comes
with a prize of €100,000 on top of the A University team has walked away
€25,000 already received from the regional with the overall winner’s prize at
heats. I am very proud of what Sophia the Northern Ireland Science Park
Search has achieved.” (NISP) Connect’s £25k Awards.
Sophia Search was set up in 2007 and Tactility Factory, founded by academic
is based across two continents – the Trish Belford and former Ulster Professor
Northern Ireland Science Park in Belfast Ruth Morrow edged out nine rival
and St Petersburg, Russia. competitors to pick up the £10,000
prize with their patented technology
Dr Patterson and Dr Dobrynin have designed to combine textile design with
developed ground-breaking semantic hard building materials such as concrete. From left: Trish Belford and Ruth Morrow from
search technology which enables Tactility Factory with Michael Kidd, Head of
companies and organisations to The team’s versatile, durable concept Business Banking, Bank of Ireland.
intelligently search their ever increasing could have wide-ranging implications
volumes of documents and unstructured for all types of building construction, The awards, sponsored by Bank of
information, whether it resides internally and received particular credit from the Ireland and Invest Northern Ireland,
or externally to the organisation. judges for combining Northern Ireland’s were presented at a gala ceremony in
long-standing heritage in textiles with the newly refurbished Titanic’s Dock and
Seedcorn, the largest business competition cutting-edge building product design. Pump-House at the NISP.
on the island with a €360,000 prize fund,
aims to stimulate new start-up activity, Trish Belford said: Steve Orr, Director of NISP Connect, said
accelerate commercial development and that the awards have again uncovered
create more opportunities for private “We are extremely pleased to have local talent with innovative ideas and
equity investment. been named winner of this year’s £25k inspiring ambitions.
Awards. The assessment process has
A total of 225 entries to the competition been testing but ultimately “The aim of the awards is to discover
were received, a 30% increase on last extremely rewarding. intellectual property concepts which can
year’s total and the largest number of offer measurable impact on not only
entries since the competition began. Eight “Competing for this award benefited the local but global economy and that
companies made it through to the finals
our business thinking and has given us is exactly what we have achieved with
based on the quality of their business
great insight into the potential of our the winners, Tactility Factory, and all the
plan and an investment pitch to an
business on a global scale. This award other finalists,” he said.
independent panel of judges, including
has greatly boosted our prospects to
leading entrepreneurs, venture capitalists
commercialise our product and go to “The quality of entrants this year was
and private investors.
market. In addition to this, the icing exceptional and in particular the judges
on the cake is receiving a significant were impressed with Tactility Factory’s
The event was attended by An Tánaiste
financial prize which will provide vital unique leveraging of one of Northern
and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and
capital at this time enabling us to take Ireland’s oldest industrial heritages –
Employment Mary Coughlan TD, who said:
advantage of the opportunities that are textiles – into a whole new and exciting
now presenting themselves.” building product arena. It already seems
“These winning companies typify the
that this idea has great global potential
island’s entrepreneurial spirit, using their
There was further success for the with interest already emerging within
ideas and vision to develop a product or
University as TrapCop, which allows the Middle East regarding its potential
service with innovative and commercially
steam traps to be monitored non- application in the construction
viable technology to break new ground in
intrusively, and SDW, a digital of mosques.
a growing market.”
watermarking technique, won awards
in the CleanTech and Hi-Tech “This is undoubtedly a very exciting time
categories respectively. for the company and I would like to
congratulate them and all our finalists. It
The judging panel included Sinclair really is a case of ‘watch this space’ with
Stockman, ex-Chief Scientist of BT, and all these finalists and I wish them every
Damien Callaghan of Intel Capital. success in the future,” he concluded.
To find out how we can help your business, contact the Office of Innovation,
From left: David Patterson, Sophia Search; Liam Nellis, telephone 028 9036 8019, email enquiry@ulster.ac.uk or http://oi.ulster.ac.uk
InterTradeIreland and Alastair Kerr, Sophia Search.
the ulster graduate l spring 2010 11development and alumni relations
Alumni Fund Awards for Academic Excellence
Six students were presented with Alumni Fund Awards
for Academic Excellence at a ceremony on the Coleraine
campus in November 2009. The awards are made to the
undergraduate student with the highest average mark in
each faculty at the end of their first year.
The Awards are for £400 (half of which is in the form of book tokens).
The students who received the awards were:
Eamon Durey: BA Hons Creative Technologies
Jill Watson: BDes Hons 3D Design
Shweta Agarwal: BSc Hons Biomedical Engineering
Roslyn Cooke: BSc Hons Biomedical Sciences
Kristen Whitla: BSc Hons Communication,
Pictured with the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Richard Barnett are (from left):
Advertising and Marketing Eamon Durey, Jill Watson, Roslyn Cooke, Kristen Whitla, Rachael McMullan
Rachael McMullan: BSc Hons Accounting and Shweta Agarwal.
International student Shweta I was looking for a course in Biomedical all of them. My family gives me the
Agarwal, a second year Biomedical Engineering in India, only a few colleges encouragement to work hard. I speak
Engineering student at the offered it and they were new courses. For to my father every day and I go home
Jordanstown campus, is one of me Jordanstown has the perfect balance for my holidays – I went home three
six recipients of the Alumni Fund between the country and the city. The times last year.
Awards for Academic Excellence campus has everything in one place. There is
2009. Shweta was the top the peace and quiet necessary for study, and You received the Alumni Fund
overall student in the Faculty of it is by the sea. The sports centre was a big Excellence Award for being the top
Computing and Engineering in her draw. And my brother was here to guide me. student in the Faculty of Computing
first year. and Engineering in your first year.
What is most difficult about being an Do you think being an international
Originally from the historic town of international student here? student contributed to this?
Jhansi – which is famous for Queen There is a different culture and environment. I feel that as an international student I
Rani Laxmi Bai and her sacrifice in I don’t believe language changes a person, am pushed to work harder. I have had
the first War of Independence of but it does highlight their weaknesses to focus on my strength, my academic
India – Shweta is the third member of and strengths. It can be hard to express ability. The main purpose for me to be
her family to study at the University, yourself clearly and there are difficulties here is education, so I have to work
following her brother Shantanu and with understanding. Also my course has hard. Winning the award and academic
sister Sonal. She says her family, and a placement year but I can’t apply for all success means it is worthwhile.
particularly her father, have been very placements as I am not an EU student.
supportive of her studies and always Would you recommend your choices
encouraged her. Do you find it hard to fit in? Are you to other international students?
treated differently to local students? Yes. There are fewer Indian students in
She spoke to the Alumni Relations I used to find it hard to fit in as I am the Northern Ireland so the culture seems
Office about her experience so far: only international student in my class. My more blended. The location is perfect
weakness was my language – I was slow for me and the environment is good.
How did your family hear about to understand conversations and found it The Faculty has been very helpful.
the University of Ulster? hard to join in. I needed to focus on my
My brother Shantanu was looking strength which is my academic ability. My I would like to work in genetic
for a university to do a Master of success has given me confidence. engineering, maybe research, do a
Business. He looked on The Times I don’t think I am treated differently to PhD. I can use my education to give
website, where Ulster rated second for local students. I used to get lost all the something to India.
student satisfaction. My family had no time, but people here were very helpful,
connection to Northern Ireland before and I was given good guidance. What would you like to change
my brother came here. about your life here?
What do you miss most about India? I went to boarding school in India, and
Why did you choose to leave India I miss my family and Indian food – we although I missed my family, my friends
and come here? use a lot of spices in our cooking. I have became like family to me. I would like
India is a developing country. When a large family and I feel connected to to bring them all here with me.
12 the ulster graduate l spring 2010development and alumni relations
Commonwealth Lifesaving Alumni Fund
Sports Scholar
Championships 2009 This year’s Alumni Fund Sports
The Opportunities Fund helped in team events but individual events as Scholar is final year BSc Hons Sport
student Catherine Browne to well. As well as winning a bronze medal and Exercise Science student Neamh
compete as part of the Northern she also achieved 11th place in the 200 Woods from Omagh.
Ireland team at the Commonwealth metres obstacle race. She said that the
Lifesaving Championships in support and encouragement from the Neamh has played Gaelic football for
Edmonton, Canada, last year. team at the side of the pool throughout over 11 years and in that time she has
the race was really heartening and will established herself as one of the top
The 21 demanding events required always be a fond memory. players in Ireland. Having worked her way
a unique combination of speed- up through club and County Tyrone age
swimming, underwater swimming, Catherine would like to thank the group teams, the pinnacle of her career
negotiating obstacles – together with supporters of the Alumni Fund, which to date has been her captaining the Ulster
considerable lifesaving technical skills, helped with her travel costs. Seniors to Inter Provincial glory and being
knowledge of first aid and initiative in awarded a Senior Ireland All Star Award.
managing disaster scenarios.
Neamh is a key member of the ladies
This was the third time Northern Ireland Gaelic football team at Jordanstown on
had competed in the championships,
and off the pitch. She has been integral
competing against teams from Australia,
in the club winning every possible major
Canada, South Africa, England, Wales,
University title over the last two years
Scotland, Hong Kong and New Zealand.
and has now taken on the role of Club
Secretary. She has won two Irish University
Catherine won one of the two bronze
All Star Awards and in her spare time
medals the team brought home, in the
she also manages to play some netball.
rope throw event. She also competed
Not one to do anything by half she has
in a number of event finals, not only
recently returned from the Cooke Islands
where she was part of the Northern Ireland
netball team that finished eighth in the
Alumni Fund over the telephone by calling the Alumni
Relations Office on 028 9036 8350 or at
http://alumni.ulster.ac.uk
World Youth Championships.
We believe Neamh is a very worthy
The Alumni Fund supports the winner of this year’s Alumni Fund
annual Academic Excellence Awards, Direct Debit: we can send you a form or Sports Scholarship Award.
the Alumni Fund Sports Scholarships, you can download one from
the Opportunities Fund, Scholarships http://alumni.ulster.ac.uk
for Students from the Developing Just £10.83 a month for three years,
World and is used to support with Gift Aid, is worth £500 to us.
the Libraries.
By using Gift Aid, your gift will be
The Alumni Fund enables donations increased by the Inland Revenue by 28p
from alumni, staff and former staff for every £1 you give. If you are a higher
of Ulster to enhance the experience rate taxpayer you can also claim back 20p
and create opportunities for current in every £1. This means that a donation
and future students. If you would like of £100 from you is worth £128 to us,
to support the fund you can use the and if you are a higher rate taxpayer only
donation form on the reverse of the costs you £75. All you need to do is tick
carrier sheet or make a donation in one the Gift Aid box on the Donation Form.
of the following ways: Further details of Gift Aid are on our
website. (USA Donors – Donations to the
Cheque: made payable to the American Friends are tax-deductible to
‘University of Ulster Foundation’. the extent allowed by law).
(USA Donors - cheques should be made
payable to the ‘The American Friends of We welcome every gift, regardless of
the University of Ulster’). size. When put together all gifts will
make a huge difference to our students
Credit card: donations can be made now and in the future.
the ulster graduate l spring 2010 13development and alumni relations
Christmas Reception with the Conservators
3 December 2009 saw donors and Guests were welcomed by Professor Deirdre
supporters of the Derry and Raphoe Heenan, Dean of Academic Development at
Diocesan Library gather for a Christmas Magee. Highly-esteemed book conservator
reception at the conservation studio at and bookbinding historian Professor
Shantallow Library in Derry. It provided Nicholas Pickwoad spoke on the national
an opportunity to meet members of significance of the collection. It is a unique
the conservation team and see the historical resource despite little having
ingenious solutions they are putting been known about it until recent years –
in place to halt the decline of this it is a Cinderella of the library world.
historic collection. Joe McLaughlin, University Archivist and Rare Books
For many donors and supporters of the Curator with Professor Deirdre Heenan.
The Diocesan Library comprises project this was their first visit to the studio
approximately 7,000 documents and to see how their help has made the project
volumes dating from circa 1480 to a reality. The conservation team welcomes
1990. It covers an impressive range of visits by schools, special interest groups
subjects in addition to its theological and the wider public. Please contact the
writings and reflects an important period conservation studio to arrange a tour on
in the City’s history. 028 7135 0791.
The project aims to conserve the Fundraising efforts are continuing in order
historic Church of Ireland Derry and to raise the final target of £55,000.
Raphoe Diocesan Library and to create Further details on the project and how to
donate can be found at: From left: Conservation Assistants Alessandro Scola
opportunities for learning and education and Tony Upton with Yolande Macartney and Jenny
through outreach activities. www.derryraphoelibrary.org Jarvis, Project Director and Chief Conservator.
Development Event at the OBG
Last year the University celebrated the 160th anniversary
of its School of Art and Design, one of the oldest such
schools in Ireland and the UK. Since its foundation in 1849,
the School has contributed significantly to the creative and
artistic life of Northern Ireland and beyond.
The exhibition which ran from 3 December 2009 to 31 January
2010 at the Ormeau Baths Gallery in Belfast was the highlight
of a year-long series of events organised to mark this milestone
anniversary, and to recognise the history and successes of
the School, its alumni and staff. The Exhibition reflected the
wide variety of artistic disciplines which have flourished under
the institution and on 20 January 2010, the Vice-Chancellor,
Among the statues: Lord Lieutenant of Belfast, Dame Mary Peters; Neil Shawcross; Professor Richard Barnett held a reception at the gallery.
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Naomi Long; Professor Barnett; and Mike Catto.
Guests were treated to entertaining speeches by the well-known
artist and former lecturer at Ulster, Neil Shawcross and writer,
broadcaster and former lecturer at Ulster, Mike Catto. The
Vice-Chancellor outlined future plans for the University before
guests were taken on tours of the exhibition by the University
Curator Hugh Mulholland and Mike Catto, both of whom were
instrumental in making the exhibition a reality.
For information on current fundraising priorities and
how to donate to Ulster please visit
www.ulster.ac.uk/development or contact the
Development Office on 028 7032 3208
email: de.caulfield@ulster.ac.uk.
We look forward to hearing from you.
From left: Mrs Fitzpatrick, Professor Liam Kelly, Dominic Fitzpatrick, Dr Wendy Austin.
14 the ulster graduate l spring 2010You can also read
