Former American Congressman Joe Kennedy III has received an honorary doctorate at a ceremony on the ATU Donegal campus in Letterkenny this afternoon – the first such doctorate bestowed by the university.
Joe is the grandson of Robert F. Kennedy, and the grand-nephew of former President John F. Kennedy.
He served as a Democratic Congressman for Massechusetts between 2013 and 2021, before being named as the US Special Envoy for Northern Ireland in 2022.
It is that role for which he has been granted an honorary doctorate today in Letterkenny.
In accepting the honorary doctorate, Mr Kennedy said that “…it’s an extraordinary honour to receive this doctorate from Atlantic Technological University. I am immensely grateful to be with you today.”
“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: “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.”
ATU President Dr Orla Flynn thanked Mr Kennedy for accepting the inaugural doctorate from ATU in her remarks.
“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.”
