Limerick City and County Council congratulates Professor Shane Kilcommins on his appointment as President of University of Limerick. Professor Kilcommins, who previously served as Provost and Deputy President and has been Acting President since 2024, brings significant leadership experience and a deep understanding of the University and its role within the region.
The Governing Authority of University of Limerick announced the appointment. Professor Kilcommins is expected to play a central role in shaping the University’s next phase of development.
Welcoming the news, Mayor of Limerick, John Moran said:
“University of Limerick is one of the key drivers of growth in the Mid-West, not only in education but in shaping the region’s economic future. Its role in attracting investment is closely tied to the highly skilled graduates it produces and the many national and international events it hosts on campus each year. 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. Along the way, I have grown to consider him a good friend and a trusted advisor for my own work. I was delighted to hear this news.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery commented:
“Congratulations to Professor Kilcommons on his appointment as UL President. He brings a wealth of experience and a clear passion for education and leadership. UL is hugely important to Limerick’s ongoing development, adding greatly to our cultural and social life. I’m really looking forward to working with Professor Kilcommins as the University continues to grow and develop.”
Director General, Dr Pat Daly added:
“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. University of Limerick is a key education partner for Limerick City and County Council, and we look forward to building on that strong relationship as we pursue our shared ambition for sustainable growth and regional development.”
A release from UL outlined Professor Kilcommins’ experience as follows:
Professor Kilcommins previously held the role of Provost and Deputy President of UL and has served as Acting President since 2024. He brings extensive academic and executive leadership experience, having previously held senior roles including Head of the School of Law and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.
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.