3 November 2004

UCD Celebrates its 150th birthday in style as it honours all walks of life at a special honorary degree ceremony
As a spectacular start to the UCD 150th Anniversary, University College Dublin set the tone of the year-long celebrations at a special honorary degree ceremony to give recognition to a wide range of people who have made exceptional contributions to Irish society and have had a significant impact on the world stage. The graduates were chosen as their achievements reflect the theme of the UCD 150 celebrations - the unequalled influence that UCD has had on the economic, social, political, scientific, literary, academic and legal development of Ireland throughout the past 150 years, and the continuation of this influence into the future.  Being recognised for their exceptional contribution to Irish society and their impact on the world stage the following people received honorary degrees: The Arts Michael Flatley Dancer and entrepreneur Imogen Stuart Sculptor Eithne Healy Chair of the National Theatre - The Abbey and supporter of the Arts Anne Madden  Artist Humanitarian action and philanthropy Christina Noble Founder of Children's Foundation in Vietnam and Mongolia Lochlann Quinn Industrialist and philanthropist Academic and learning excellence Sir Derek Morris Provost of Oriel College Prof Garret FitzGerald University of Pennsylvania: world expert in pharmacology of cardiovascular disorders Prof Dr Wolfgang Meid Universitaet Innsbruck: international expert in classical linguistics and celtic languages Fr John Dardis SJ Principal of the Jesuit Order in Ireland: advocate for refugees in Europe and Joycean scholar Socio-economic and political impact David Byrne European Commissioner Bruce Morrison Former US congressman, responsible for US Immigration Act 1990 Dr Pearse Lyons President of Alltech: scientist, innovator and entrepreneur. Charlie Bird RTE journalist Niall O'Dowd Editor, Irish Voice, Irish America Magazine, and role in peace process Sport Mick O'Dwyer Former Kerry footballer Kevin Heffernan Former Dublin footballer Willie John McBride Former Irish and Lions rugby international Kevin Moran International soccer and Manchester United player, former Dublin footballer                                                The honorary graduation ceremony reflected the ethos of the University placing a strong value, not just on academic achievement, but also on the creation of the holistic.
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