18th May 1998

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In recognition of their decades of selfless commitment and drive to build a better society in Northern Ireland, the University of Ulster will this year award honorary doctorates to some of the unsung heroes and heroines of the communities we serve.

People like May Blood, Kate Kelly, Meg Holmes and Anne Murray, whose work through the years has made a vital difference to so many people's lives.

In making the announcement, Professor Lord Smith of Clifton, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ulster said:

'The University is not just for the eminent and famous: our roots extend deep into Northern Ireland's diverse and talented society. In this year, when great change is in the air, we are proud to pay special tribute to the contribution made by those dedicated community servants whose public profile may be low, but whose achievements in our society are immense. We feel it is appropriate to broaden the scope of our 'honours system', deepening and extending the University's close links to the community in a way unique in the higher education arena.'

These unsung heroes and heroines will join distinguished men and women like jurists Catherine McGuinness and Lord Lester (formerly Anthony Lester QC), international figure like John Hume, media commentators Keith Kyle and Martyn Turner and others at graduation ceremonies to be held in Belfast, Londonderry and Coleraine.

In this list of graduands are trade unionists, community workers, teachers and women's rights workers, as well as jurists, statesmen, artists, knights, captains of industry and literary greats, all of whom lend lustre to the University and to Northern Ireland.

Professor Lord Smith of Clifton, added:

"This University has worked hard to earn its reputation for close links with the community it serves. These awards recognise the often selfless and unheralded work of community leaders and community activists whose contribution to social progress is immense. We see them as partners, helping us to discharge our own mission and it is our intention to honour more of their work in the future. I believe that the positive changes for good that are taking place today would not be possible without people such as this. It is a radical idea but one to which the University is committed."

A full list of graduands is attached.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Communication and Development
Telephone: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk