MOUNTBELLEW Agricultural College will host the ‘She Led the Way: Women at the Heart of Veterinary Heritage and Agricultural Progress’ event on Friday July 3.

Women's role in veterinary and agricultural heritage to be celebrated at Mountbellew event

Published: Tue 16 Jun 2026, 6:15 PM

MOUNTBELLEW Agricultural College is hosting a symposium to celebrate women’s roles in veterinary and agricultural heritage, with President Catherine Connolly set to attend.

'She Led the Way: Women at the Heart of Veterinary Heritage and Agricultural Progress,' will take place on Friday July 3 from 8.30am to 5.30pm.

Developed by the Aleen Cust Society in partnership with Galway County Council and Mountbellew Agricultural College, the event celebrates the legacy of pioneering veterinary surgeon Aleen Cust and explores the role of women in shaping agriculture.

“This symposium brings together education, research and community to reflect on the past while also addressing the future of sustainable agriculture and rural development. It is an opportunity to inspire the next generation of leaders,” said Dr. Edna Curley, Principal of Mountbellew Agricultural College.

Highlights of the morning session include Marie Boran speaking on ‘Country House Women, Land and Agriculture in the West of Ireland, 1850–1914’ and Professor Maura Farrell on women driving change in agriculture.

The afternoon sessions focus on speaker spotlights from Mike Burke and Rebecca Reynolds (Vets Without Borders Ireland), Aoibheann O’Brien (FoodCloud), Dr. Doreen Corridan (STEM Woman of the Year 2025) and Professor Patrick Pollock (ATU Veterinary Medicine).

Discussion panels will be moderated by Christy Cunniffe and Margaret Good, and will include a session on ‘Ireland’s Food Supply Chain Under Pressure: Food Insecurity and Supply Shocks.’

Community heritage exhibitions and vintage displays by local heritage groups will form an important part of the programme too, showcasing the richness of local history, tradition and agricultural heritage.

“Through this symposium, we are continuing our work to ensure that the remarkable story of Aleen Cust is recognised and remembered, while also highlighting the vital and evolving role of women within the veterinary profession,” remarked Donal Connolly of the Aleen Cust Memorial Society.