The Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council was in the United States this week where she was awarded an Honorary Doctoral degree.
Cllr Niamh Kennedy received the honour alongside the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr, from Worcester State University, near Boston.
The awards were in recognition of their outstanding contributions to civic leadership, community engagement, and cross-border collaboration as part of The North West Tertiary Education Cluster (NWTEC). The NWTEC is a strategic alliance comprising the four publicly funded tertiary education providers in the North West City Region – the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) , Ulster University (UU) , North West Regional College (NWRC) and Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB).
The cluster was established to foster greater coherence and collaboration in the education and skills provision across the region and enhance the educational landscape and contribute to the economic and social development of the North West City Region.
Cllr. Niamh Kennedy said “I am deeply honoured to receive this prestigious recognition from Worcester State University. The honorary degree reflects not only my own personal commitment but also the collective efforts of our region in building stronger, more cohesive cross-border partnerships. This honour highlights the ongoing importance of collaboration between the North West Tertiary Education Cluster and the wider community. Together, we are fostering a more inclusive and prosperous future for our region. Worcester State University’s dedication to academic excellence and community engagement aligns closely with our values, and it’s a privilege to be acknowledged by such an esteemed institution.”
The Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Niamh Kennedy and the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr.
President of Worcester State University, Barry M. Maloneys said: “We are deeply honoured to recognise Mayor Barr and Cathaoirleach Kennedy with honorary degrees – Doctorates of Humane Letters, honoris causa, – and formally acknowledge their dedication to public service and their commitment to fostering positive relationships across borders align perfectly with the values of Worcester State University. Their work serves as an inspiration to our students and the wider community. Our university has a very long standing and positive working relationship with ATU, Ulster University and the wider education cluster and the honorary degrees awarded today further cement our commitment to fostering that connection.”
The special ceremony was led by the University President Barry M. Maloney. Members of the university community, local dignitaries, and invited guests were in attendance at the event which was part of the college’s annual academic achievement celebrations. During their visit to Boston, the two Mayors also attended a reception hosted by the University where they had the opportunity to engage with students.
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