Dr Caroline Gilleran Stephens, from Munterconnaught, scooped up the Sustainability Award, recognising her outstanding commitment to advancing sustainability through education, research, and community engagement.
The TrailblazHER Excellence Awards celebrate individuals whose determination, creativity, and impact are paving the way for a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable Ireland.
Dr Gilleran Stephens is a lecturer in Environmental Biotechnology at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and leads the Environmental Education research theme within the Centre for Freshwater and Environmental Studies (CFES).
This award highlights Dr Gilleran Stephens' exceptional leadership in sustainability and environmental education, as well as her impactful work through initiatives such as H?O Heroes and her contributions to DkIT's CFES.
Her dedication to advancing research and fostering community engagement continues to inspire students, colleagues, and partners across the institute and beyond.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Dr Stephens said receiving the award was an "incredible honour." She said: "Sustainability is not just about environmental protection, it is about empowering people and communities to make meaningful, lasting change. At DkIT, I'm privileged to work with inspiring colleagues and students who share that passion and who are driving innovative, real-world solutions to the challenges we face.
"This recognition reinforces the importance of education, research and community engagement in building a more sustainable future. Awards like TrailblazHER remind us that when we celebrate diverse voices and empower women in leadership, we accelerate progress for our environment, our society and future generations."
