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HEA Recognises DkIT Department of Hospitality Studies with DELTA Award
By Caroline Mahon
Posted: 9 November, 2026
The Higher Education Authority (HEA) has announced the renewal of the Disciplinary Excellence in Learning, Teaching and Assessment (DELTA) Award for the Department of Hospitality Studies at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT). The department first received a DELTA Award in 2018 and was recognised again in 2022.
The DELTA Awards recognise discipline groups in higher education that demonstrate excellence in teaching and learning enhancement and a shared commitment to continued improvement. Through the award process, teams reflect on their achievements, agree future priorities and share their practice with the wider higher education community.
Tim Conlon, Head of Policy and Strategic Planning at the Higher Education Authority, said:
‘This award recognises the commitment of the team at DkIT to enhancing the student learning experience. Receiving DELTA recognition for the third time reflects the department’s sustained excellence in teaching and learning. We congratulate the Department of Hospitality Studies on this achievement, which is a credit to DkIT and the wider region.’
The evaluation panel, comprising independent national and international experts in teaching and learning, commended the team, noting that across culinary arts, hospitality, tourism and events, the department places student partnership, inclusive teaching and strong industry connections at the centre of its work.
The HEA congratulates the Department of Hospitality Studies team at DkIT and recognises the contribution of all its members, Dr Kevin Burns, Maria Roddy Freyne, Alan McCabe, Karen Commins, Dr Teresa O’Rourke, Glenn McCormack, Christopher McGrath, Dr Diako Khodeai, Lorraine Dunne, Aidan Hoare, Elizabeth Murray, Rosemary Leonard, Michael McNamara, Mairead McKenna, Derick Englishby and Roisin Carolan. The team’s achievement will be celebrated at the National Teaching and Learning Impact Awards in spring 2027.
The next application deadline for the DELTA Award is Wednesday, 2 December 2026. Further information on eligibility, the application process and submitting an intention to apply is available on the HEA Teaching and Learning website.
