Broadcasters Annie MacManus and Miriam O'Callaghan, as well as Channel 4's Managing Director of Nations and Regions Sinéad Rocks, were celebrated alongside former Taoiseach Enda Kenny, prominent agri-food specialist Dr. Clive Black, and Valerie Ingram, a significant player in local business and the nonprofit sector.

"This means a lot to me and my husband is from Belfast," said Ms. O'Callaghan, who received an Honorary Doctor of Literature for distinction in broadcasting.

"I spent the majority of my career covering peace-building."

"It is a great honour and a privilege to be here at Queen’s University, but it is an even bigger privilege to be the recipient of a Doctor of Laws," said former taoiseach Enda Kenny, who received a Doctor of Laws for distinction in public service.

The speech was given on behalf of all the graduates at the occasion by Sinéad Rocks, Managing Director of Nations and Regions at Channel 4, who was honoured as a Doctor of the University for services to broadcasting.

The winners were characterised as "exceptional individuals" by Queen's University President and Vice Chancellor Professor Ian Greer, who said their careers had a "profound impact" all over the world.

"Through their achievements, they have shown both strength of character and creativity, and demonstrated the values that matter most to our University."