BREAKING: University of Limerick appoints new President
Professor Shane Kilcommins previously held the role of Provost and Deputy President of UL and has served as Acting President since 2024
THE Governing Authority of University of Limerick has announced the appointment of Professor Shane Kilcommins as President of the University.
Professor Shane Kilcommins, President at the University of Limerick Picture: Alan Place
A full Professor of Law, Professor Kilcommins is a respected scholar with a strong record of research, public engagement and service. His academic work is closely associated with principles of justice, rights and fairness, including long-standing engagement with organisations and agencies across policing, prisons and the wider criminal justice system.
As Acting President, Professor Kilcommins provided leadership during a period of institutional challenge, representing the University in national fora and working to restore effective relationships with key stakeholders, while maintaining a clear focus on the University’s academic mission. A central early priority for Professor Kilcommins will be to work closely with the Governing Authority to agree and advance the University’s next strategic plan.
Welcoming the appointment, Professor Brigid Laffan, Chancellor of University of Limerick, said:
“The Governing Authority has great confidence in Professor Kilcommins’ judgment, integrity and understanding of the responsibilities of leading a public university at a time of significant change in higher education nationally and internationally. He brings academic credibility, strong institutional knowledge and a principled approach to both scholarship and governance. Under his leadership, this University will stretch its ambition while remaining faithful to its core values.”
Speaking following his formal appointment by the Governing Authority, Professor Kilcommins said:
“It is an honour to be appointed President of University of Limerick. UL is a university with a distinctive character and a clear academic purpose, rooted in this region but also confident in its place nationally and internationally.
"What makes UL distinctive is the breadth of the education it offers. An education at UL encompasses not only how students are taught and what they study, but how they develop as individuals, how they understand relationships, and how they engage with wellbeing, creativity, diversity and community. Here, academic excellence sits alongside sport, culture and the arts, and no one is defined by a single pathway or identity. That is the hallmark of an education for life, and one of the defining strengths of this University.
Prof Kilcommins continued: "From this very special institution emerge the next generation of scholars, researchers, professionals, public servants, athletes, entrepreneurs, artists and creatives. The responsibility of leadership is to protect and strengthen the conditions that allow this to happen, by setting the right tone and ensuring that everyone who works here, in every role and at every level, feels valued, supported and able to contribute fully.
"I am confident in the future of this University. With a renewed sense of shared purpose, UL will articulate and advance its academic mission and its role as a public good, while sustaining an environment of which staff and students can rightly be proud.”
Welcoming the news, Mayor of Limerick, John Moran commented:
“I have had the very great pleasure to work with Shane since my election and observe the very important changes in governance and direction he has implemented at a critical time... I was delighted to hear this news.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery added:
“Congratulations to Professor Kilcommins on his appointment as UL President. He brings a wealth of experience and a clear passion for education and leadership.”
Director General, Dr Pat Daly stated:
“We are very pleased to continue working with Professor Kilcommins as he takes on his new role as President of University of Limerick, and we warmly congratulate him on his appointment. Having worked closely with Shane over a number of years, we have seen first‑hand his commitment to UL and his understanding of the vital role the University plays in the life of this region.”