Colleagues, students, alumni, and friends recently gathered in Rocque Lab in Rhetoric House to celebrate the career and retirement of Dr Ronan Foley. An Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and member of the Assisting Living and Learning Institute (ALL) and Social Sciences Institute (MUSSI). Ronan’s research explores the relationship between place and health—how our environments influence well-being, access to care, and quality of life.
A leading voice in Health Geography, Ronan joined MU in 2003 after 15 years at the University of Brighton. His work has deepened understanding of how environments influence well-being and healthcare access. As an educator, he taught Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Health Geographies at undergraduate level and directed the MSc in GIS and Remote Sensing from 2013 to 2021. His mentorship has inspired a generation of researchers now working in academia, public health, and environmental management.
Professor Rob Kitchin opened the event by acknowledging Ronan’s impact. “His generosity as a colleague and mentor has helped build the supportive community we have today. We’ll miss his wit and warmth around the department, but we know his impact will continue to inspire future geographers.”
Dr Sarah Bell from the University of Exeter highlighted Ronan’s ability to connect personal experiences of place with broader social ideas. “He always encouraged us to push boundaries and think differently. He’s inspired so many of us to be bold and creative in our work.” She also recalled his playful curiosity, sharing a memorable moment from a 2018 methods workshop where participants testing biosensing technology saw Benedict Cumberbatch filming nearby. “We’ve since dubbed it ‘The Cumberbatch Effect,’” she laughed. “Ronan turned an unexpected moment into one of the highlights of my career.”
Professor Andrew Power, an MU alum now at the University of Southampton, spoke about Ronan’s generosity as a collaborator. “He listens, supports, and challenges you to think in new ways. Working with him has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.”
Reflecting on Ronan’s wider contributions, Professor Gerry Kearns described him as “thoughtful, curious, and genuinely kind,” highlighting his role in fostering a collegial and supportive environment within the Department of Geography.
Beyond his academic work, Ronan has played a key role in making MU a healthier place for all. As Chair of the MU Healthy Campus Steering Group, he championed the implementation of the HEA Healthy Campus Framework, signing the MU Healthy Campus Charter in 2023. Under his leadership, the university launched a Nature Connection walking trail, designed to enhance staff well-being through engagement with green spaces. Orlagh Eustace, Health Promotion Officer, noted, “Ronan’s vision and dedication have brought the Healthy Campus initiative to life. His work has made a real difference in creating a healthier and more connected campus community.”
In recognition of his outstanding career, Ronan has been appointed Emeritus Professor, ensuring his continued connection to MU and lasting legacy in the field.
Congratulations to Dr Ronan Foley on his retirement and Emeritus Professor appointment. Thank you for your remarkable contributions to Health Geography and the MU community.
Watch highlights from the event here.