Ulster University has welcomed a high-profile international delegation from the Golisano Foundation and Special Olympics to its Derry~Londonderry campus, following the University’s recent recognition as a recipient of the 2025 Global Golisano Health Leadership Award.
The prestigious award – the highest honour presented by Special Olympics for advancing inclusive health – recognised Ulster’s exceptional partnership with Special Olympics Ireland in improving health outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities.
During their visit, senior representatives from the Golisano Foundation and Special Olympics Europe Eurasia and Special Olympics International toured Ulster’s Derry~Londonderry campus, including the School of Medicine, and met with academic staff and students involved in inclusive health programmes.
The delegation’s visit reflects Ulster University’s growing international standing in inclusive health education, research and community partnership. Discussions focused on strengthening global collaboration, expanding inclusive health initiatives, and continuing to address health inequities experienced by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Professor Cathy Gormley-Heaney, Provost at Ulster University, said:
“We are honoured to welcome colleagues from the Golisano Foundation and Special Olympics to our campus. Their visit underscores our shared commitment to advancing inclusive health.
This recognition – and the opportunity to host such a distinguished delegation – affirms Ulster University’s leadership role in driving meaningful, sustainable change for people with intellectual disabilities, both locally and globally.”
The visit builds on Ulster’s longstanding collaboration with Special Olympics Ireland, spearheaded by Dr Angela Carlin and colleagues, which provides inclusive health training, community outreach and health screening initiatives while equipping the next generation of healthcare professionals with the skills and values to deliver person-centred, inclusive care.
