Adjunct Professor Dr Rory O'Sullivan

07/12/2023

Leading Expert Dr Rory O'Sullivan Appointed as Adjunct Professor to DCU's Further Education & Training Research Centre at the School of Policy & Practice, Institute of Education

Dublin City University (DCU) is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Rory O'Sullivan as Adjunct Professor to the School of Policy & Practice, Institute of Education. Dr O'Sullivan brings an unparalleled wealth of experience and expertise in Further and Vocational Education and Training (FET) in Ireland, making him a valuable addition to DCU's academic community.

With a distinguished academic background, Dr O'Sullivan holds numerous Education qualifications including a Ph.D. in Further Education and Training policy. His extensive knowledge and connectedness within the education sector, particularly in FET, position him as a key influencer in shaping the future direction of DCU's strategy building stronger connections with the FET sector.

Recently retired from the City of Dublin Education & Training Board, Dr O'Sullivan has demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout his career. Prior to this role, he served as the Principal of Killester College of Further Education for an impressive 20 years until 2021. In 2021, he became Principal of Killester and Marino College of Further Education, before completing his City of Dublin ETB service as Principal of Cathal Brugha FET College, the new flagship FET College, in January 2023. His administrative and educational acumen has also been showcased in roles such as Deputy Principal of Ballsbridge College of Further Education, Admissions Officer at Coláiste Íde College of Further Education, and Teacher at Whitehall College of Further Education.

Dr O'Sullivan's commitment to the education sector goes beyond his institutional roles. He has actively contributed to various committees and external bodies, holding positions such as Dublin Regional Skills Forum, and a member of the City of Dublin ETB Quality Assurance and Strategic Performance Council, and was recently appointed to the Board of the Higher Education Authority (HEA). His leadership extends to being the Co-founder and former Chair of the FET Committee of the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals, Further Education and Training Colleges Ireland (FETCI).

As an accomplished researcher, Dr O'Sullivan has published extensively on the evolution of FET in Ireland, post-secondary vocational education and training, and educational management. His notable work, including "From the ‘Cinderella’ to the ‘Fourth Pillar’ of the Irish Education System—A Critical Analysis of the Evolution of Further Education and Training in Ireland," has been featured in prestigious scholarly outputs.

Dr Justin Rami, Director of FETRC said,

The appointment of Dr Rory O'Sullivan as Adjunct Professor is a strategic move for DCU as the institution aims to continue to strengthen ties with FET, aligning with the Plan for DCU's Strategic Focus on Extending Educational Opportunity. Professor O'Sullivan's appointment is poised to significantly contribute to ongoing efforts, fostering equitable opportunities for FET graduates within DCU and the FET sector.

DCU looks forward to the impactful contributions Dr Rory O'Sullivan will make as an Adjunct Professor, further enhancing the institution's commitment to academic excellence, research, and the advancement of FET in Ireland.