Judging Panel
An independent panel of recognised and expert judges, drawn from the highest echelons of the Educational Institutions in Ireland and abroad, will determine the winners of the Education Awards.
We understand the importance of a fair and objective judging process. That's why we assemble a prestigious panel of industry leaders, renowned for their extensive knowledge, enthusiasm, and expertise in the education industry.
Our selection process is meticulous. Judges are bound by strict confidentiality agreements and declare any potential conflicts of interest. Entries with conflicts are reassigned, ensuring complete impartiality.
This unwavering commitment to integrity is the foundation of our awards programme. Become a part of recognising industry excellence. If you're interested in joining the judging panel, email your details to judges@businessriver.com
2026 Judging Panel
Willie Donnelly (Judging Coordinator)
Director of Research and Innovation, The Technical Higher Education Association THEA
Research Innovation and Engagement Director, The Technical Higher Education Association (THEA) Ireland. Previous Role: President, Waterford Institute of Technology (2015-May 2022). Created on led one of Ireland's leading academic research centre TSSG/Walton Institute. VIEW MORE
Dr Joe Collins
Director of Further Education and Training, ETBI
Dr Joseph Collins is Director of Further Education and Training at ETBI. VIEW MORE
Denise McMorrow
STUDENT EXPERIENCE MANAGER / CHAIR OF UNESCO DUBLIN LEARNING CITY, IADT
Denise McMorrow is Head of Student Experience in the Institute of Art, Design and Technology and she is the Co-Chair of UNESCO Dublin Learning City. She has over 25 years’ experience in Education, Access, Inclusion and Diversity. She provides leadership in the integration of the student services fun VIEW MORE
Paul Mullally
Director, Education Lighthouse
Paul has been directly involved with student recruitment from a range of different countries and regions, and more recently, he has been an international education consultant and has worked with institutions in Ireland, the UK, the US, Australia, and NZ to help with their internationalisation strate VIEW MORE
Ciarán Ó hAnnracháin
Project Manager - Strategic Business Projects, Atlantic Technological University
Dr Ciarán Ó hAnnracháin has worked in tertiary education, both public and private, for 35 years in the Irish, UK, US, and Swiss education systems, predominantly working in the field of Hospitality and Tourism Management and Education Leadership. VIEW MORE
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