New President of Vincent de Paul

The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) has elected Teresa Ryan as National President.

Teresa has served with SVP for over 12 years, including as Local and Area President, Mid-West Regional President, and most recently as a member of the National Management Council and Trustee. As SVP Mid-West Regional President, she played a leading role in developing the Limerick City drop-in centre in collaboration with volunteers and staff.

Born in Belfast and raised in Ballybay, Co Monaghan, Teresa trained in hotel catering before qualifying as a nurse. She spent 35 years with the Brothers of Charity Services in Limerick, ultimately serving as Head of Quality in Client Services, focusing on risk management, advocacy and inclusive policy development.

Throughout her life, Teresa has volunteered extensively. She was involved in establishing a social club for young adults with disabilities, served in a rehabilitation centre for injured war victims, and volunteered in an orphanage early in her career. These experiences have shaped her approach to supporting those in need.

A passionate advocate for the rights and dignity of every individual, Teresa’s advocacy efforts have helped establish platforms for people with intellectual disabilities to speak for themselves - a testament to her belief in empowerment and inclusion.

Commenting on her appointment, Teresa Ryan, National President of SVP, said: “It’s a privilege to serve as National President, and I want to pay tribute to my predecessor, Rose McGowan, whose steady leadership and commitment to the people we support set a strong foundation. I will begin by listening, to the people we support, to our members and volunteers, and to partners in every community, so that every voice is heard with respect. I will also advance SVP’s strategic plan, championing education and personal development as vital tools in breaking the cycle of poverty, so that together we make a practical, lasting difference for households across Ireland.”