Presented as part of International Women’s Day, the University’s wider 180th anniversary celebrations and Queen’s Gender Initiative’s 25th year, IN GOOD COMPANY: Portraits of Queen’s Women, is a collaboration between the Naughton Gallery and Queen’s Gender Initiative and aims to highlight the essential role of women in shaping the University’s past, present, and future.  

Selected through an open call inviting nominations from staff and students, the 15 women represented in this project reflect the breadth of contributions made by both Academic and Professional Services staff across the University. Now part of the University Art Collection, these portraits create a lasting legacy, celebrating these women’s achievements and highlighting their invaluable contributions to the Queen’s community. 

Speaking about the project, Ben Crothers, Curator and Collections Manager at the Naughton Gallery, said:  

"I am delighted that the University has commissioned these 15 watercolour portraits by Laura Callaghan, a phenomenal local talent with a well-earned international reputation. It is a privilege to welcome her work into the University Art Collection to be enjoyed for many years to come. This project is a perfect companion to our long-running Visionary Women portrait series—an ever-expanding collection of specially commissioned oil paintings that has been a cornerstone of our Collection since 2002. Each of the remarkable women selected for this new project is a true credit to the University, and it is an honour to celebrate their contributions in this very special way.” 

Karen McCloskey, Professor of Physiology in the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences at Queen’s and former Director of Queen’s Gender Initiative, reflected on the significance of the exhibition: 

"Queen’s Gender Initiative has always been about championing the contributions of women at Queen’s through promoting visibility and amplifying voices. IN GOOD COMPANY: Portraits of Queen’s Women is a powerful visual testament to the breadth of talent, dedication, and leadership of women across Queen’s. It has been a privilege to help bring this project to life, celebrating these remarkable individuals and creating a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations." 

Professor Peter Robertson, Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at Queen’s, added:

“At Queen’s, we are committed to fostering a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion where everyone’s contributions are valued and celebrated. As we mark International Women’s Day, the University’s 180th anniversary celebrations and Queen’s Gender Initiative 25th year, this exhibition is a powerful tribute to the impact of women across our university. These portraits represent the voices, leadership, and achievements of women who continue to drive positive change and shape our Queen’s community every day.”  

Leeann Matchett, Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Queen’s, one of the 15 women honoured as part of the exhibition, shared her appreciation: 

“Being a part of this exhibition is an incredible honour. It’s uplifting to see the University shining a light on the contributions of women who may not always be in the public eye but who play a crucial role in its success.” 

The exhibition is on view from 11.30am on Friday 7 March until 4pm on Sunday 23 March. The Naughton Gallery is open daily, from 11am to 4pm. Admission is free and all are welcome. 

The 15 women nominated as part of the project are: 

• Wahida Benali Tighiouart (Estates) 

• Sandra Bloomer (Academic Services) 

• Karen Branney (Accommodation) 

• Sally Bridge (AEL) 

• Professor Moira Dean (School of Biological Sciences) 

• Chougher Maria Doughramajian (CESR) 

• Dr Leanne Henderson (SSESW) 

• Sara Lynch (Estates) 

• Breige McGuigan (Campus Food and Drink) 

• Professor Tess Maginess (SSESW) 

• Leeann Matchett (People and Culture) 

• Lorraine Meneilly (Students’ Union) 

• Professor Margaret O’Callaghan (HAPP) 

• Sureya Paerharti (Academic Services) 

• Professor Karen Rafferty (EEECS)