The Dentons Legal Insights Programme, led by Dr Elaine Burroughs and Marie Therese Ward, is a flagship initiative within the School and run in partnership with the MU Careers and Employability Service and MU MAP. The programme offers students insight into legal practice while fostering professional development, confidence, and career readiness. The programme pairs undergraduate law students with experienced legal professionals from Dentons, creating meaningful mentoring relationships that bridge academic study and the realities of legal careers.

This year, the programme’s impact has been recognised on both an international and all-island stage. It was shortlisted for the Emerging Talent Award at the Target Jobs Awards, held in London in April 2026. This highly competitive UK and international award celebrates initiatives that demonstrate exceptional commitment to nurturing and developing future talent.

In addition, the programme was shortlisted for the Building an Effective Partnership Award 2026 at the AHECS Awards, an all-island initiative delivered by GradIreland and held in April 2026. This nomination reflects the strength of collaboration between Maynooth University and Dentons, recognising innovative partnerships that deliver tangible benefits for students and graduate employability.