Waterford SETU lecturer named STEM Woman of the Year

Dr Sheila Donegan, a chemistry lecturer at the South East Technological University (SETU), has been named STEM Woman of the Year, for her more than two decades of work bringing science and mathematics to young people in the community.

Dr Donegan, a chemistry lecturer and co-director of CALMAST, SETU’s STEM engagement centre, received the evening’s top honour at the recent Business Post Women in STEM Awards 2026.

Sponsored by Fidelity Investments Ireland, the award recognises her contribution to widening participation and opening opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Her success at this year's awards, held at the Round Room of the Mansion House in Dublin, follows her recognition in the awards’ mathematics category last year.

As co-founder of Maths Week Ireland, Dr Donegan has helped build an all-island initiative that now attracts more than half a million participants annually.

Working with schools, universities and partner organisations, the initiative encourages people of all ages to explore mathematics, build their confidence and recognise its relevance in everyday life.

Seeing young people discover that “science and maths are for them” remains one of the most rewarding aspects of her work, Dr Donegan said.

“Through CALMAST and Maths Week Ireland, we work with wonderful colleagues, teachers and partners who make those moments possible. I’m delighted to receive this award and to share that recognition with everyone involved.” 

The judges recognised her sustained contribution to opening the door to STEM for generations of young people.

Dr Donegan is hoping that greater visibility for women working in these fields will encourage more girls and young women to follow their curiosity and consider the opportunities available to them.

“Sheila brings the same energy and imagination to working with University colleagues as she does to engaging schoolchildren and the wider community,” said Dr Laurence Fitzhenry, Head of Faculty of Science and Computing at SETU Waterford.

“She encourages people to ask questions and gives them the confidence to explore science for themselves.

"Her national recognition is a source of pride for colleagues across the faculty," he added, describing the award as “a fitting tribute to the care and commitment she has shown throughout her career”.

Alongside her outreach work, Dr Donegan’s academic interests include innovative approaches to science and mathematics education and public understanding of science. Her contribution to science communication has also received international recognition through the EU Descartes Award, shared with her colleague Eoin Gill.

Professor Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice-President for Research, Innovation and Impact at SETU, described the latest honour as “a well-deserved recognition of Sheila’s sustained commitment to STEM education and public engagement”.

By building relationships with schools and communities, she added, Dr Donegan has helped young people develop their confidence and discover new interests.

“Sheila’s enthusiasm is infectious. She has a gift for making science and mathematics accessible, and her work shows how university expertise can make a difference in people’s lives.” Speaking at the ceremony, Marian Harkin TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for Further Education, Apprenticeship, Construction and Climate Skills, highlighted the importance of celebrating women’s achievements while encouraging more girls and young women to consider STEM careers.

The nominees had made “remarkable contributions to Ireland’s research and innovation across a wide range of sectors”, Minister Harkin said, welcoming the opportunity to recognise their achievements.

While acknowledging progress in supporting women in research, she stressed the need to keep widening participation.

“It’s so important that young women can see the opportunities available to them and know that these careers are open to them too.” 

SETU’s representation across the awards also reflected the breadth of talent within the University.

Nollaig Healy of CALMAST was shortlisted in the ESG Woman of the Year category, while Dr Deirdre Kilbane of SETU’s Walton Institute was shortlisted in both the Science and Technology categories.

Dr Frances Hardiman was shortlisted in the Engineering category, with Dr Paula Walshe shortlisted in the Rising Star category.