University of Limerick Alumni Spotlight: Katie Shinners

In the latest instalment of our Alumni Spotlight, we speak to Katie Shinners, a senior Clinical Nurse Manager with Enable Ireland Adult Services based in Limerick.

Katie made a pivot in her career back in 2010 when she returned to college as a mature student to study Intellectual Disability Nursing at UL.

Nursing runs in Katie's family - pictured above is Katie's mother, Mary Morgan, a retired registered nurse who also worked in the area of intellectual disability. Mary trained in St. Vincent's Lisnagry, Co Limerick and worked there for 35 years. Katie's daughter, Ava Shinners, has just completed her 2^nd year of the BSc in Nursing (Intellectual Disability) at UL.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m from County Tipperary and I studied BSc in Nursing (Intellectual Disability) at University of Limerick from 2010 to 2014. 

Currently, I balance my role as Clinical Nurse Manager 2 within Enable Ireland Adult Services and being mother to four wonderful children. I have a keen interest in the mind-body connection, positive psychology and the science of health and happiness. I've undertaken various studies in this field, continually expanding my knowledge and skills, therefore bringing an enhanced and diverse approach to my professional practice.

Why did you choose the BSc in Intellectual Disability Nursing, and why at UL?

I initially studied Beauty and Complementary Therapy. Many of the people I worked with presented with health and life challenges. These early experiences sparked a desire to pursue a career in the healthcare sector.

What did you enjoy most about the course?

The course blended academic learning with real-world application, allowing me to develop a deep understanding of what nursing is and why this branch is so essential to supporting enabling and empowering the person with intellectual disabilities to live a full meaningful happy life.   

I also cherished the chance to foster meaningful therapeutic relationships with persons with intellectual disabilities across their lifespan, as well as with their families. These connections are at the heart of intellectual disability nursing, providing continuity of care and support that is personalised, innovative, dynamic, and holistic.   

The BSc in Nursing (Intellectual Disability) nurtured within me an understanding of the importance of critical thinking, reflective practice and above all the important role the nurse has within an interdisciplinary team. The programme not only prepared me for a career in nursing but also instilled within me a lifelong commitment to learning, questioning, and researching.

What did you enjoy most about UL? What is student life like here?

What I enjoyed most about my time at University of Limerick was the vibrant and inclusive community spirit that embodies every aspect of student life. As a mature student, I found UL to be exceptionally welcoming, ensuring that I could fully engage in both academic and social activities. The sense of belonging and support from the university staff was incredible, making me feel valued and appreciated within the community. Student life at UL is enriched with activities, clubs, and societies that cater to diverse interests and backgrounds.

The university's inclusive nature meant that there was always something for everyone, and I was able to find fulfilment beyond the classroom. Some of my closest friends today are those I met during my time at UL.

I made friends for life who are now part of my support system. UL provided a holistic and enriching student experience. The community spirit, inclusive atmosphere, and unwavering support from both peers and staff made my time there truly memorable.

Can you tell us about your work placements during the course?

My placement experience during the BSc in Nursing (Intellectual Disability) was an invaluable part of my education. I had the privilege to work within many services and communities. These placements were instrumental in shaping my career and deepening my understanding of intellectual disability nursing. Seeing expert nurses merging their professional and ethical knowledge, placing the person centre stage in care delivery was truly inspiring. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of my practice placements was understanding the importance of professional dedicated specialised knowledge required to be a competent nurse. The practical experience reinforced the importance of seeking to understand life and its challenges from the perspective of the person with disabilities and in turn reinforcing the importance of designing care delivery strategies that positively supports the person through their life journey despite challenges.  

How did UL support you throughout your studies?

The support system at UL was outstanding. Whether it was academic guidance or personal support, I always felt that help was readily available. The university staff were approachable and understanding, ensuring that any challenges I faced were quickly addressed. This nurturing environment made my educational journey not only successful but also enjoyable. This made my transition from student to professional life seamless.  

The collaborative environment fostered a strong sense of belonging and professional growth.  To this day, the Department of Nursing and Midwifery still play an invaluable support to my role as a clinical manager. The staff are so invested in promoting best practice in services, through their research, education programmes and guidance.  

Tell us about your own career journey so far?

My career journey has been very diverse. I began as a beauty and complementary therapist, a role that allowed me to foster holistic relationships and make people feel their best. I felt it was a natural progression to study nursing.   

After completing my BSc Nursing (Intellectual Disability) at University of Limerick, I gained experience in various settings, including nursing homes, residential services, children’s respite, and adult day services as a staff nurse.   

I transitioned into management roles, progressing from Clinical Nurse Manager 1 (CNM1) to Clinical Nurse Manager 2 (CNM2). Throughout this journey, I continued my education by completing numerous courses in leadership, management, ensuring I am competent and up to date with evidence-based practices.  

Currently, I work with Enable Ireland Adult Service in Limerick. My career has been a blend of hands-on nursing, leadership and continuous learning, all aimed at enhancing the well-being and potential of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

How did your UL course and your overall UL experience prepare you for entering the workplace upon graduating?

University of Limerick equipped me with the knowledge, skills, attitude and confidence to thrive in the healthcare sector, ensuring I was well-prepared to make a meaningful impact from day one.

What advice would you give to students considering a career in Intellectual Disability Nursing?

Always be yourself, bring with you your own personal talents, be reflective, question what and why you are doing in practice. Think outside the box.  Make a positive difference every day, sometimes that means stretching your own comfort zone.  

Be nice, be friendly. Never forget that the person with intellectual disability is a very important person. Keep up to date with best practice and education. Wellbeing and self-care must take priority when working in healthcare. We as nurses are exposed to personal traumas and we often meet people when they are at their worst. Seek out ways to unwind your mind/body and release tension and practice this daily.

What are your hopes and dreams for the future?

I hope that people with disabilities continue to live their best lives. I hope that the lines continue to blur from special to mainstream. I hope society educates themselves about what life is like for people with disabilities. I hope that the role of the Registered Nurse (Intellectual Disability) continues to expand.