This Trinity School of Medicine policy and civic engagement report 2024 was launched at a special ceremony by Professor Linda Doyle, the Provost & President, Trinity College Dublin on Friday 13th September.

Civic Action plays an important role in Trinity College Dublin’s Strategic Plan 2020– 2025 as reflected in its mission statement: “Through our teaching, research and public engagement, we courageously advance the cause of a pluralistic, just and sustainable society”.

In 2022, Professor Jo-Hanna Ivers, from the School of Medicine was appointed as Trinity’s first Associate Dean of Civic Engagement for Societal Impact. Under her leadership, Professor Ivers published the Civic Engagement for Societal Impact (CESI) Action Plan 2024-2026  which sets out to support and celebrate civic engagement and societal impact across Trinity.

As Director of Policy and Engagement for the School of Medicine, Professor Susan Smith is deeply committed to integrating societal engagement into the university’s core activities, particularly in the field of Medicine. Professor Smith also believes in the transformative power of involving our students, faculty, staff, and alumni in addressing societal challenges, promoting democratic values, and fostering positive social change.

This Trinity School of Medicine policy and civic engagement report 2024 showcases a diverse selection of civic engagement activities taking place across the 21 Disciplines in the School of Medicine. By celebrating the achievements of several of our civic engagement champions, both within Trinity and among our external partners, we are fostering an ecosystem that advances collective knowledge and expertise, leading to innovative solutions for societal impact.

While other civic activities are also taking place, this report provides a starting point for capturing and celebrating the difference that the School of Medicine is making in the lives of patients and communities.

The report focuses on work under four main areas of civic engagement:

  • Supporting disadvantaged local and global communities
  • Promoting community health through creative engagement
  • Learning Together – Teachers, Students & Global Communities
  • Influencing health and social care policy

By celebrating Trinity School of Medicine’s contributions to local, regional, national, and international communities, this report is testament to the dedication and impact of both Trinity staff and our external stakeholders in driving meaningful societal change.

The full report is available to browse here.