A former Limerick Voice Editor has been honoured as “inspirational” at an awards ceremony.
Derek Bowler received an Outstanding Achievement Alumni Award (Society) at the 2026 University of Limerick Alumni Awards in the Castletroy Park Hotel on Friday. He and three other recipients joined a distinguished group of alumni recognised since the awards programme began in 2006, drawn from UL’s global alumni of more than 140,000 graduates.
Bowler graduated in 2011 from the University of Limerick with a degree in Journalism and New Media after beginning his studies as a mature student. During his time at UL, he served as Chief Reporter and later Editor of the Limerick Voice, while also gaining experience in broadcasting and digital journalism.
Among the recipients, acclaimed novelist Donal Ryan is among four ‘inspirational’ University of Limerick alumni who have been honoured at an awards ceremony. One of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary writers, the Spinning Heart author was honoured alongside diplomat Frances Collins, Martin Cotter, Chief Business Units Officer and President, EMEA, at Analog Devices (ADI), and investigative journalist Derek Bowler.
UL President Professor Shane Kilcommins said the awardees were “inspirational”.
“Tonight marks the nineteenth year of this prestigious programme, a tradition that has celebrated extraordinary graduates since 2006. Over that period, more than 60 alumni have been honoured, each reflecting the values, ambition and impact that define University of Limerick. Tonight, we add four more distinguished names to that remarkable list.”
Among Bowler’s achievements, he contributed to a network bringing together journalists and forensic investigators, to major international investigations, and to the Academy’s School of AI programme, which received the European Digital Skills Award in 2025. He also established the Eurovision Social Newswire, and founded Eurovision News Spotlight,and Signal and Shadow, an independent consultancy providing OSINT training and investigative support to media organisations around the world.
Professor Kilcommins said, “These awards are about achievement, certainly. But they are also about inspiration.”
“They demonstrate the enduring value of education. They highlight the difference that one individual can make in their community, profession, country and, in many cases, the wider world.”
Professor Kilcommins said each recipient “represents four very different paths, but they share a common foundation, a University of Limerick education and a commitment to excellence.
“Through literature, diplomacy, technology, and journalism, they have all sought to make a meaningful difference. They have used their talents not solely for personal achievement, but to create value for others.
More than 200 guests attended the event which was supported by lead sponsor Edwards and several event partners. The MC was UL alumna and broadcaster Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh.