John Kelly
Principal of Teagasc Ballyhaise Agricultural College
John has an extensive 23-year career in Teagasc Colleges, beginning his journey at Kildalton and Clonakilty before joining Ballyhaise in 2013. As the leader of Ballyhaise, the only agricultural college in the northern half of Ireland, he has played a vital role in expanding its educational programs and facilities. During his tenure, Ballyhaise has grown from offering seven to eleven programs, now serving over 800 students. Central to his vision is the focus on sustainable agriculture, particularly through a strong partnership with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) in co-delivering degrees in Sustainable Agriculture. This collaboration underscores Ballyhaise’s dedication to addressing the evolving technical and environmental challenges in modern farming. Kelly has also spearheaded significant investments in the college's 220-hectare farm and teaching facilities, which include Ballyhaise House, dairy and beef herds, sheep, and woodlands. These improvements provide students with invaluable hands-on experience in sustainable farming practices, reinforcing the college’s standing as a leader in land-based education.