The Network for the Study of Resilient Women: Reflections on Sources

The Network for the Study of Resilient Women was founded in 2023 by a group of Early Career historians at Trinity College Dublin, inspired by the expanding field of women’s and gender history and the remarkable strength and resilience found within it. Our network seeks to continue the tradition of uncovering and amplifying the extraordinary stories of ordinary women, with a focus on modern history. As a historical forum, we aim to foster collaboration among researchers, historians, professionals, and scholars dedicated to exploring and advancing the study of resilient women. Through our work, we hope to deepen engagement with these powerful narratives and contribute to a richer understanding of women’s roles in shaping history.
Rachel Killeen worked as a business consultant in the professional services sector for over three decades. She authored two books for the professional services and wrote numerous publications for clients.
In 2020, Rachel completed the MPhil in Gender and Women’s Studies at Trinity College Dublin (TCD). Her thesis focused on the challenges of contemporary working motherhood. Rachel is now engaged in an oral history research study for a PhD at TCD. The research captures recollections and experiences of married women in Ireland, who worked in the professional services sector, from the mid-1960s to the mid-1980s.
A former teacher and public servant, Joan Kavanagh completed her PhD in 2024 on Irish
people transported as convicts to penal colonies in the 1840s. She is currently working on a
project, sponsored by Grangegorman Histories, with Dr Dianne Snowden, on female convicts
held in Grangegorman Penitentiary awaiting transportation. Her interests include crime,
policing, penal history and social conditions in 19th century Ireland, the Great Famine and
Irish-Australian studies. Máire Hussey is a second year PhD student at Trinity College Dublin. Her research looks at young women’s experiences of sex and sexuality in 1970s and 1980s Dublin. Her PhD is funded by the Research Ireland Government of Ireland postgraduate scholarship. She has a BA in History and English Literature from Trinity College Dublin, and a MSt in Women, Gender and Queer History from the University of Oxford.

The Modern and Contemporary Irish History Seminar Series will take place at 2.30p.m. on Wednesday in the Trinity Long Room Hub Arts & Humanities Research Institute. It provides a forum for discussion and dissemination of new ideas, perspectives, and research on Irish history, Irish Studies and cognate disciplines. All are welcome. We particularly welcome members of the postgraduate community. Convenors: Dr Carole Holohan, Dr Georgina Laragy, Prof Lindsey Earner-Byrne. 

Please indicate if you have any access requirements, such as ISL/English interpreting, so that we can facilitate you in attending this event. Contact: carole.holohan@tcd.ie