Timothy Francis O’Leary-Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science
In recognition of his work and practice as both a veterinarian and humanitarian Dr. Frank O’Leary has been awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science from University College Dublin. The honour coincided with the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the worlds first veterinarian school in 1761.
Professor Grace Mulcahy, Dean of Veterinary Medicine, UCD School of Agriculture, Food Science and Veterinary Medicine said, “In his professional capacity, Frank has consistently fulfilled a duty of care by taking individual personal circumstance, and temporary or permanent hardship, of clients into account when providing veterinary services.”
Dr. O’Leary obtained his MVB degree from UCD in 1962 after which he established his own practice in South Kerry. He set up the Mike O’Leary trust after his son died unexpectedly in 2003 aged 39. It is through the funds of this trust, in association with VIVA (Volunteers in Irish Veterinary Assistance), that many UCD veterinarian students have been given the opportunity to impart their knowledge onto farmers in Africa and share Frank’s beliefs with other communities. The trust has additionally provided support into the study of cardiomyopathy and placement of cardiac defibrillators in the area of South Kerry and also in UCD.