Festivities in the air as Queen’s Celebrates Historic Athena Swan Gold Award
31st May 2024
Queen’s University Belfast today hosted a celebration event in honour of being awarded the prestigious Athena Swan Gold status for its work in promoting gender equality in higher education.
The landmark achievement positions Queen’s as the second university in the UK and the first on the island of Ireland to receive the distinguished accolade.
Over 400 guests, including students, staff, alumni, and community leaders, were in attendance.
The celebration featured reflections from the First Minister and deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, offering their perspectives on the broader impact of gender equality initiatives within the region.
First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “This award is a testament to the dedication of Queen’s towards creating a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable learning environment. By fostering an environment where all are valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential, Queen’s has set a shining example for others to follow. Gender equality is a fundamental human right that lies at the heart of a fair and just society.
“It is incumbent upon all of us – government, public institutions, communities, and individuals – to champion this cause, to stand up for equal rights, and to work towards a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration, but a lived reality.”
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “Congratulations to Queen’s on this prestigious award. To be recognised as a standard bearer in the field of promoting gender equality is fantastic, particularly when this is only the second university in the UK to achieve this.
“This award reflects the importance of promoting an inclusive environment where everyone is respected and valued and I pay tribute to everyone involved in making this happen.
“Higher Education institutions like Queen’s play a key role in developing a workforce that is fully inclusive and reflective of our community and I have no doubt it will continue to play its part in paving the way for a thriving brighter future for everyone.”
The University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, highlighted the significant strides made by the University in fostering an inclusive and equitable environment, stating:
“Achieving the Athena Swan Gold status is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the entire University community to gender equality.
“Together we reflect on our journey, celebrate our achievements, and envision a future where equality and inclusivity are at the forefront of our civic mission.
“Our leadership in this arena serves as an inspiration to other institutions and underscores the critical importance of gender equality in our society.”
Attendees at the event were treated to a variety of lightning talks by staff and students whilst artistic performances captured the spirit of gender equality and empowerment. Live musical acts also provided an uplifting backdrop to the day’s celebrations.
Esteemed panellists from various sectors discussed the advancement of women and girls across society, and the overarching benefits of gender equality for all.
The Student’s Union President, Beth Elder, shared her insights on the ongoing efforts to advance gender equality from a student perspective:
“I’m incredibly proud to be from an institution which has made such strong progress on gender equality, and thankful to all the staff and students who have made this achievement possible.
“Since I was very young, I always wanted to study medicine, but during my school years, received constant messaging about not being ‘good enough.’
“My experience in Queen’s gave me the academic and personal confidence to pursue my dreams of becoming a Doctor and I officially start my medical degree at Queen’s in September 2024.”
Academic Lead of the Queen’s Athena Swan programme, Professor Karen McCloskey notes:
“From an academic perspective, I welcome the huge advancements we’ve seen in inclusion of women at all levels in academia. We’ve also seen specific actions and new policies supporting women’s health and a culture that better supports wellbeing and work-life balance for everyone.
“Today’s festivities are not only a recognition of our past efforts, but also a call to action for continued progress.”
In-keeping with the joyful atmosphere, food trucks were stationed around the venue, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the celebrations.
The event also featured a formal lunch for key stakeholders, providing an intimate setting for deeper conversations on actionable strategies to further the University’s ethos of active inclusion.
