Atlantic Technological University Awards Honorary Doctorate to Joseph Kennedy III, U.S. Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) has awarded its inaugural honorary Doctorate to Joseph P. Kennedy III, US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to civil society, public service, and peacebuilding. The ceremony took place on Wednesday, 2 October, at ATU’s Letterkenny campus in County Donegal.
Joseph Kennedy, a graduate of Stanford University and Harvard Law School, has had a distinguished career in public service. His efforts have centred on promoting economic equity, civil rights, and social justice. His commitment to serving disadvantaged communities was evident from his time with the United States Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic, through to his four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Now, as Special Envoy to Northern Ireland, Kennedy focuses on fostering economic growth and advancing peace in a region with a complex political legacy.
In accepting the honorary doctorate, Mr Kennedy said:
"It's an extraordinary honour to receive this doctorate from Atlantic Technological University. I am immensely grateful to be with you today."
Reflecting on ATU's contributions, he added, "Through research and dialogue, ATU is creating real opportunities for engagements between communities in Northern Ireland and the Republic. The North South Engagement Centre is a model for how education can be used as a tool to unite – not just people, but ideas, aspirations, and futures. This is the work of visionaries. It reflects ATU’s belief in the power of connection and a future filled with possibilities."
Mr Kennedy highlighted the impact of ATU graduates, noting, "Graduates of this university are given the tools to do something transformative – build bridges where there once were walls, and help shape the future not just of Donegal, but of this entire island. This is what ATU is about – using education as a force for unity and progress."
Mr Kennedy concluded by expressing his deep appreciation:
"I cannot tell you how grateful I am to receive this honour. Rooted in community, in recognition of our shared humanity, in celebration of our connectivity. Building a future that is bold and bright, together. What a special place. What important work. What a gift you give. The world would do well to learn from it. Thank you, Atlantic Technological University, for this incredible honour. I accept it with deep gratitude and promise to continue to carry forward ATU’s values of education, unity, and service to others."
Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, thanked Mr Kennedy for accepting the inaugural doctorate from ATU; "With several campuses near the border region of Northern Ireland, ATU’s potential contribution to an enhanced quality of life for cross-border communities played a key role in this decision. Joseph Kennedy’s work as Special Envoy to Northern Ireland, in the US Congress, and at Citizens Energy demonstrates a lifelong dedication to underserved communities and a passion for sustainability, peace, and reconciliation. As a university that is committed to sustaining the communities of our region, we are very pleased to recognise the impactful contributions Mr. Kennedy has made on this island."
Chair of the ATU Governing Body, Maura McNally SC, added, “Joseph Kennedy’s dedication to promoting peace and economic development is inspiring. His ability to champion the needs of disenfranchised communities aligns with ATU’s core values. It is a privilege to bestow this honorary doctorate as a reflection of our admiration for his work."
In addition to Kennedy’s honorary doctorate, ATU will be awarding a second honorary degree to Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and global leader in human rights and climate justice, in December. Robinson, Ireland’s first female president, has long been an advocate for social justice, human rights, and climate action, transforming these fields globally through her leadership.
These honorary doctorates form part of ATU’s autumn conferring ceremonies, which will take place from October to December across the counties of Donegal, Galway, Mayo, and Sligo. These celebrations will recognise not only the contributions of distinguished individuals but also the accomplishments of ATU’s graduates, emphasising the university’s role in education, research, and community engagement across the region.
Photo caption: Maura McNally, SC, Chair of the ATU Governing Body, Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, Joseph P. Kennedy III, US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, Dr Billy Bennet, the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Registrar at ATU, Paul Hannigan, Head of College, Atlantic Technological University, Donegal.
Aidan Haughey
ATU Communications Manager
Bainisteoir Cumarsáide OTA
Ollscoil Teicneolaíochta an Atlantaigh (OTA), Éire
Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Ireland
Tel: + 353 86 086 6913
E: aidan.haughey@atu.ie
