TUS ATHLONE ANNOUNCES 50TH ANNIVERSARY DESIGN CONFERENCE
As part of the celebrations marking 50 years of design education in Athlone, Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is delighted to announce its 50th Anniversary Design Conference, taking place on 22 October 2026 at the Athlone campus.
The conference will bring together alumni, industry professionals, designers, students, staff, and creative practitioners for a day of inspiring talks, discussion, and reflection, exploring contemporary design practice and the opportunities, challenges, and possibilities shaping the future of design.
Leading the event as keynote speaker is Professor Jeremy Myerson, Emeritus Professor at the Royal College of Art. A highly influential figure in design education and practice, Myerson founded Creative Review and Design Review, worked alongside legendary designer Alan Fletcher, and is the author of influential publications including Beware Wet Paint and The Art of Thinking Sideways.
The conference will feature an exceptional line-up of speakers, including Annie Atkins, internationally renowned graphic designer and lettering artist; Matt Lamont, designer, print collector, archivist, and educator; Noelle Cooper and Colin Farmer of Unthink; Elaine O’Neill, systems designer and Athlone graduate; and Jack Smyth, award-winning book cover designer. They will be joined by a diverse group of alumni and industry contributors whose work continues to shape and define contemporary creative practice.
Over the past five decades, the Graphic Design programme in Athlone has produced generations of designers, art directors, creative leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, and innovators who have made significant contributions nationally and internationally. The conference forms a central part of the programme’s 50th Anniversary celebrations, providing an opportunity to reconnect with graduates, celebrate achievements, share ideas, and explore the future possibilities of design.
Tara Cullen, Programme Lead in Graphic Design at TUS Athlone, said:
“This conference is a celebration of the people, ideas, and creative spirit that have shaped design education in Athlone over the past 50 years. We are delighted to welcome such an outstanding line-up of speakers and to create an opportunity for alumni, students, staff, and industry partners to come together, share experiences, and look ahead to the future of design.”
The conference follows a successful year of 50th Anniversary celebrations, including the Graduate Showcase, a range of student projects, community collaborations, exhibitions, and the launch of an exciting art competition. Together, these initiatives celebrate the programme’s rich legacy, creative community, and ongoing impact on design education over the past five decades.
Further programme details, speaker announcements, and booking information will be released in the coming weeks.