Ulster University has been named as one of only seven recipients worldwide to receive a 2025 Global Golisano Health Leadership Award, the highest honour bestowed by Special Olympics for contributions to inclusive health.
The Award, presented during celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the Golisano Foundation on 3 October at St. John Fisher University, Rochester, New York, recognises Ulster University’s exceptional work in improving health outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities in partnership with Special Olympics Ireland.
Accepting the award on behalf of the University, Professor Cathy Gormley-Heaney, Provost at Ulster University, said:
“This award is a powerful recognition of our University’s commitment to inclusion and wellbeing. I want to pay tribute to our staff who have worked with such dedication to support Special Olympics athletes across Ireland – their energy and expertise have created lasting impact. We are proud to be recognised internationally for this work and look forward to building on it in the years ahead.”
The initiative at Ulster University has been spearheaded by Dr Angela Carlin, School of Sport and Exercise Science, who has led the programme of work with Special Olympics Ireland. She added:
“This recognition is a tribute to the strong collaboration between our staff, students and Special Olympics partners. Together we have delivered inclusive health programmes that empower athletes, improve access, and make a real difference in people’s lives.
“Our partnership with Special Olympics Ireland has provided training and practical experience for our students and healthcare professionals and supported community outreach work and health screenings. In addition, our research and advocacy work has informed the ongoing work of Special Olympics Ireland.
“We are honoured that Ulster University’s contribution has been celebrated on a global stage, and I would like to acknowledge staff and students across the University for their contribution to this award.”
Dr Kathy Fulcher, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator, Special Olympics Ireland, said:
“Special Olympics Health and Wellbeing programmes are a vital part of our inclusive health focus, going beyond sports, addressing the often-overlooked health disparities faced by the intellectual disability population. The collaboration between Special Olympics Ireland and Ulster University enables us to drive forward on these objectives in clubs and communities across the whole region ensuring, those with intellectual disabilities have equal access to health and wellbeing support, education, and screening.”
The Global Golisano Health Leadership Awards recognise outstanding organisations and individuals who are transforming access to health services for people with intellectual disabilities, tackling inequities and driving systemic change.
Ulster University was nominated as the most exceptional partner in the Special Olympics Europe Eurasia Region, reflecting the impact of its partnership in advancing inclusive health across Ireland.
Other 2025 global honourees included healthcare and policy leaders from the United States, Paraguay, Malaysia, Nigeria, Kuwait and Mongolia – each recognised for their leadership in advancing inclusive health and improving outcomes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
