Ulster University welcomed a global delegation to its Derry campus after receiving the 2025 Golisano Health Leadership Award. The award, the highest honour from Special Olympics for advancing inclusive health, recognised the university's partnership with Special Olympics Ireland to improve health outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities.

Senior representatives from the Golisano Foundation, Special Olympics Europe Eurasia, and Special Olympics International visited the campus. They toured the School of Medicine and met academic staff and students involved in inclusive health programmes.

A university spokesperson stated the visit reflects Ulster University's growing international standing in inclusive health education, research, and community partnership. Discussions focused on strengthening global collaboration, expanding initiatives, and addressing health inequities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Professor Cathy Gormley-Heaney, Provost at Ulster University, said the visit underscores the shared commitment to advancing inclusive health. She noted the recognition affirms the university's leadership in driving change for people with intellectual disabilities locally and globally.

The visit builds on Ulster University's longstanding collaboration with Special Olympics Ireland. This partnership, led by Dr Angela Carlin and colleagues, includes inclusive health training, community outreach, health screening, and preparation of healthcare professionals for person-centred care.