Willie Mullins, Eamonn McEneaney and more to receive Honorary Doctorates from SETU

For the second consecutive year, SETU is set to award honorary doctorates to five distinguished individuals in recognition of their exceptional and outstanding contributions to society.

This autumn, honorary doctorates are to be conferred on Anna May McHugh, managing director of the National Ploughing Association (NPA), Willie Mullins, leading horse trainer, Sr Brigid Reynolds, educator and humanitarian, Eamonn McEneaney, former Director of Waterford Museum of Treasures, and Liam Griffin, Director, Griffin Hotel Group.

By conferring honorary doctorates, the University acknowledges the achievements of these individuals, who have made a significant impact on society in the south east through leadership, culture, advocacy, social activities, sports, business, and other areas.

With this honorary degree, SETU acknowledges Anna May McHugh’s significant contribution to the advancement of agriculture in Ireland, through her leadership of the NPA. In addition, the Laois woman’s success in a male-dominated industry and her advocacy for women in agriculture have been pivotal in empowering women in the sector.

Willie Mullins, originally from Goresbridge, Co Kilkenny, has been a leading force in horse training for decades and continues to set the standard for excellence in horse training. A former jockey with over 100 wins, he has been selected for an honorary doctorate for his legacy in horse racing, innovative training approach, and lasting impact on the sport.

Sr Brigid Reynolds, an educator and humanitarian from Mohill, Co Leitrim, has dedicated her life to empowering marginalised communities and championing social justice. As a Marist Sister, she lectured, addressed poverty, and promoted social inclusion in Kaduna, Nigeria. She co-founded Social Justice Ireland in 2009 with Fr Seán Healy. SETU and Social Justice Ireland now offer an MA in Social Justice and Public Policy, with Sr Brigid contributing her expertise.

Eamonn McEneaney, with 25 years as Director of the Waterford Museum of Treasures, will receive an honorary doctorate for his key role in preserving Waterford’s heritage. Mr McEneaney led the Viking Triangle Project, Ireland’s only Museum Quarter. He was also awarded The Royal Norwegian Order of Merit for his efforts in highlighting Viking history and strengthening ties between Norway and Ireland.

Liam Griffin, from Rosslare, Co. Wexford, is being honoured for his entrepreneurship in scaling The Griffin Hotel Group into a multi-million-euro company, operating three flagship hotels in the south east– the Monart Spa, Ferrycarrig Hotel, and Hotel Kilkenny. As a former hurler and manager, he notably led the Wexford senior team to All-Ireland success in 1996. Liam is also recognised for his philanthropic support of community organisations and charities.

Last year, honorary doctorates were conferred on renowned actress Carrie Crowley, pioneering biomedical engineer, Annraoi de Paor, internationally acclaimed writer Claire Keegan, Irish academic and former politician Maurice Manning, and career diplomat and former Irish ambassador to the USA, Daniel Mulhall.