Queen’s University Belfast welcomed Dr Barbara J. Stephenson, Vice Provost for Global Affairs and Chief Global Officer at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, accompanied by Krista Northup, Director for Global Partnerships, for a three-day visit focused on strengthening collaboration across research, education and civic engagement.

Expanding a Growing Strategic Partnership

Collaboration between Queen’s and UNC Chapel Hill has expanded significantly since the partnership formally began in 2017, supported by regular faculty engagement, multidisciplinary activity and shared strategic priorities.

“The sustained collaboration between Queen’s and UNC Chapel Hill demonstrates the impact of long-term investment in truly strategic partnerships. The commitment of faculty and leadership on both sides has been central to its success, and we see strong potential for further growth across research, teaching and civic engagement.” - Professor Margaret Topping, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement

Advancing Collaborative Research

As part of the visit, Dr Stephenson and Ms Northup met academics from Pharmacy, Medicine, Nursing and Midwifery who are leading joint research projects with UNC colleagues.

These collaborations are supported through the inaugural UNC–Queen’s Pump-Priming Awards for Collaborative Research, launched earlier this year by Research and Enterprise at Queen’s and UNC Global Affiars. The early-stage projects are already demonstrating the quality, momentum and global relevance of collaboration between the two research-intensive universities.

Feargal Keane, Dr Barbara Stephenson, Prof Sir Ian Greer, Dr Joe Kennedy, Dr Ryan Feeney 

Developing New Education Opportunities

Dr Stephenson and Ms Northup also met colleagues in the Seamus Heaney Centre to discuss preparations for the first UNC faculty-led programme at Queen’s: Creative Writing in Belfast, launching in Summer 2026.

Led by UNC novelist and Professor Michael Keenan Gutierrez, the programme will bring 40 UNC students to Belfast for three weeks of writing workshops, literary events and engagement with Queen’s creative writing community. The Seamus Heaney Centre will serve as the programme hub, offering students a unique opportunity to engage with Belfast’s literary and cultural landscape.

Honorary Graduation and Ripples of Hope Event

A highlight of the visit was the conferral of a Doctor of Laws upon The Honorable Dr Barbara J. Stephenson, recognising her distinguished contribution to diplomacy, public service and higher education.

Dr Stephenson also participated in a panel discussion at the ‘Ripples of Hope’ lecture delivered by Dr Joe Kennedy III, marking 100 years since the birth of Senator Robert F. Kennedy. Hosted by BBC journalist Jayne McCormack, the event brought together Dr Kennedy, Dr Stephenson and Fergal Keane to explore the enduring legacy of the 1966 Day of Affirmation Address, with over 230 A-level students from across Northern Ireland in attendance.

Dr Barbara Stephenson 

Strengthening Connections Across Disciplines

Faculty engagement continues to underpin the partnership’s growth, with colleagues across the creative arts, health sciences and environmental sciences meeting regularly to explore joint teaching, research and funding opportunities. Ongoing collaborations and emerging research projects reflect the increasing depth and breadth of activity across both institutions.

“This visit reflects the purposeful, multi-pillar engagement we aim to cultivate with our strategic partners. The Queen’s–UNC Chapel Hill relationship strengthens our global reputation, deepens research impact and enhances opportunities for students and staff, demonstrating the value of coordinated partnership working at its best.” - Anya O’Connor, Head of International Partnerships

Looking Ahead

The visit reaffirmed both universities’ commitment to advancing a strategic partnership that supports academic excellence, global engagement and societal impact. Queen’s looks forward to continuing to build on this momentum as new opportunities for collaboration emerge across research, education and civic engagement.

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