The University of Ulster today awarded an Honorary Degree to distinguished New York lawyer John V Connorton Jr.

The honorary Doctor of Laws was conferred at a unique Graduation Ceremony hosted by Fordham University School of Law in New York City.

Mr Connorton is being honoured for his work in peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

University of Ulster Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gerry McKenna said: "We are delighted to have the opportunity to present this Honorary Degree to John Connorton in his home city of New York.

"He has made a vital contribution to peace and reconciliation and is an influential friend of Northern Ireland.

"His work has been an immense boost to peacebuilding efforts in the province at this critical time in our history.

"We are extremely pleased that John is joining the University’s list of distinguished graduates."

Professor McKenna added: "The University is awarding this honorary degree outside Northern Ireland because we want to take our message to the people of New York and the United States and demonstrate the work that we are doing in economic regeneration and inward investment.

"Partnerships, strategic alliances and entrepreneurship are the way forward for Northern Ireland as we move from a public sector dependent economy to become a dynamic player in the global economy.

"John V Connorton Jr has made a very significant contribution to achieving that goal."

Mr Connorton said: "I am deeply honored by the University of Ulster’s gesture in awarding me a Doctor of Laws.

"It is especially meaningful given that which the University represents - it is a progressive centre of excellence open to all in Northern Ireland preparing men and women across the spectrum for life and work.

"The University’s ethos in promoting peace and reconciliation is also something I deeply admire and try to emulate."

The Honorary Doctor of Laws was conferred on Mr Connorton by the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gerry McKenna.

The ceremony was attended by over 230 influential political and business figures from the City of New York.

Nobel Laureates John Hume and David Trimble sent messages of congratulation to thank Mr Connorton for his work on behalf of the people of Northern Ireland.

For further information, please contact:

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