SETU announce recipients of Honorary Doctorates 

SETU is to confer honorary doctorates on two distinguished figures this month.

This year’s recipients are John Treacy, one of Ireland’s most celebrated athletes and sports leaders, and Elizabeth Riordan-Coppin, a courageous advocate for human rights and justice.

Born in Villierstown, Co Waterford, John Treacy rose to international prominence after winning back-to-back gold medals at the IAAF World Cross Country Championships in 1978 and 1979 and a silver medal in the marathon at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. 

Born in Killarney, Co Kerry, Elizabeth Riordan-Coppin spent her early years in Ireland’s industrial school and Magdalene Laundry network, including time in Waterford. After moving to England, she worked as a nursery nurse, teacher and mother while courageously choosing to share her story publicly, becoming a leading voice for survivors.

Over the past 25 years, Elizabeth has undertaken an unwavering and dignified campaign.