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University College Cork (UCC) has recently unveiled a striking collection of fine‑art portraits as part of Accenture’s Women on Walls initiative. The series celebrates eleven pioneering women who have shaped society across the Munster region, from literature and education to activism and medicine. The unveiling, held in the historic Aula Maxima, adds a dynamic new layer to UCC’s art collection and signals the university’s ongoing commitment to diversity, inclusion and leadership.
Celebrating Munster Trailblazers Through Art
Accenture’s Women on Walls projects aim to raise the visibility of women leaders by commissioning portraits that capture their influence and spirit. In 2025, UCC became the latest venue for this national effort, bringing together Irish artists and renowned figures in a public celebration of female achievement. The initiative also dovetails with UCC’s Athena‑Swan accreditation and its Trailblazer Award, underlining the institution’s dedication to forward‑thinking education.
How The Portraits Came to Life
More than 600 submissions for portrait subjects were received in 2024, and a panel of UCC staff and student leaders narrowed the field to eleven figures who exemplify courage, vision and community impact. Four talented artists were selected from an open call held by Business to Arts, each tasked with capturing a different facet of Munster’s heritage:
- Julianne Guinee – created a group portrait featuring eight women from diverse professional backgrounds, ranging from community activism to medical research.
- Gerry Davis – painted a solo image of novelist and memoirist Edna O’Brien.
- Vanessa Jones – rendered the portrait of Honora “Nano” Nagle, the 18th‑century educator who founded the Presentation Sisters.
- Vera Klute – illustrated sports journalist and disability advocate Joanne O’Riordan.
These works not only highlight individual achievements but also invite viewers to reflect on the collective drive that pushes society forward.
The Power of Representation on Campus
Placing these portraits in the heart of UCC’s campus provides students, faculty and visitors with a tangible reminder of women’s roles in shaping history and modern life. As Professor John O’Halloran remarked, “These trailblazers have redefined leadership, and their stories will inspire future generations to think beyond conventional boundaries.” A visible display of women’s accomplishments also counterbalances historical biases that often leave women’s contributions underrepresented in public institutions.
Key Highlights from the Unveiling
The ceremony attracted university leaders, artists, scholars and community members, who gathered to witness the moment that would preserve these stories for posterity. Dr. Michelle Cullen, Managing Director of Accenture’s Inclusion & Diversity team, emphasized the importance of visibility: “Accenture’s Women on Walls provides a platform for women whose impact would otherwise be overlooked.” Business to Arts Chief Executive Louise O’Reilly added that the partnership represents a meaningful collaboration between the arts and industry, “showcasing the spirit of innovative storytelling that keeps Ireland moving forward.”
Next Steps for Students and Alumni
Students looking to engage with similar artistic or inclusive projects can explore the following opportunities:
- Join UCC’s Women’s Purposes Network—an on‑campus group that supports women in academia.
- Visit the UCC News Archive to view past initiatives and discover future events.
- Consider applying for the Athena‑Swan Trailblazer Award, a program that highlights innovative work that contributes to equality and inclusion.
Explore UCC’s news archive today and discover more stories about our community’s achievements. UCC News Archive
Why These Portraits Matter
Beyond aesthetic appeal, the portraits serve several critical functions:
- Educational Resource. Students studying sociology, gender studies or art history can use the series as a primary source for research or discussion.
- Community Building. The collection reflects the city’s diverse talent, encouraging local partnerships across sectors.
- Legacy Preservation. By commodifying these stories through high‑quality art, UCC ensures that the accomplishments of women are both celebrated and remembered.
These portraits also align with UCC’s broader strategic focus on engagement with regional stakeholders, reinforcing the university’s role as a cultural and intellectual hub for Cork and beyond.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Spirit of Inclusion
Accenture’s Women on Walls is a living campaign—each new partnership adds fresh narratives to the national tapestry of female leadership. University‑level collaborations like this one are vital for inspiring inclusive ambits at the grassroots level. Students can contribute by voicing suggestions to the UCC Art Committee or by proposing future portrait subjects that spotlight under‑represented voices.
As advocates of diversity and forward‑thinking education, the university team remains open to dialogue about expanding these artistic initiatives. Whether through guest lectures, student residencies or community outreach, UCC intends to keep the conversation alive while providing tangible resources for exploration.
For information about upcoming art projects, visit UCC Women on Walls page or contact the university’s Office for Equality & Diversity.
Take Action Now
Ready to join the conversation about women’s achievements on campus? Here’s how you can get involved:
- Submit your application today and be part of a community that celebrates diverse leaders.
- Read more about our inclusive initiatives by visiting the Equality & Diversity page.
- Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments section or on the UCC social channels.
- Follow UCC on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to stay updated on future events.
- Bookmark UCC News for ongoing coverage of campus life and accomplishments.
