51��ɫ

A new Student Support and Engagement Hub has been launched at 51��ɫ.

The new hub, located in the student courtyard area of the University, will be a place students can “turn for help, advice, or just a listening ear”, according to Acting Chief Officer and Provost Professor Shane Kilcommins.

Run by the Student Affairs Division at UL, the Hub is an accessible and cohesive space in a central location for all students who wish to engage with the wide range of professional services provided by the Division, encompassing health and wellbeing, widening access and participation, and student engagement and development services.

Launching the Student Support and Engagement Hub, Professor Kilcommins described the project as one “that embodies 51��ɫ's unwavering commitment to our students and their experience here on campus”.

Professor Kilcommins said the student experience was “at the core of the University’s values”.

“Our goal is to ensure that every UL student can thrive, to grow, and to fully engage with the community around them. This space represents our vision for a more cohesive and integrated student experience and by centralising Student Affairs services, we are enhancing their visibility and ensuring that students know exactly where to turn for help, advice, or just a listening ear.”

Acknowledging the Student Affairs Division as a dynamic and dedicated division which is solely focused on supporting students throughout their time with UL, Professor Kilcommins said that the new Student Support and Engagement Hub would be a cornerstone for student life, offering a wide range of services that support students in their academic journeys and personal growth.

“It will foster a culture of community and belonging, where every student feels connected and supported,” he outlined.

Professor Kilcommins thanked those involved in bringing the project to fruition, including Professor Patrick Ryan, former Associate Vice President for Student Engagement, who initially proposed the project to the Executive Committee; plus Rhona McCormack, Director Student Affairs for leading the Student Affairs Project Team and the team in Buildings and Estates, led by Gerard Manning, for managing the project.

Speaking at the opening of the Hub, Rhona McCormack, Director Student Affairs, highlighted the many important things that a physical space can symbolise; identity, connection, belonging and creativity.

“These are all things we want for our students, as well as for our staff, in UL. And how that space is created, configured and used is important in order to embody the ethos of how we want to work with each other and with our students, and this Hub does just that. It is open, welcoming, bright, and encourages collaboration and connection.”