Willie Mullins to receive honorary doctorate - Kilkenny Live

Leading Kilkenny horse trainer Willie Mullins is set to receive an honorary doctorate from the South East Technological University (SETU).

The Goresbridge trainer is one of five individuals to receive the honour in recognition of their exceptional and outstanding contributions to society.

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.

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Managing Director of the National Ploughing Association (NPA) Anna May McHugh, educator and humanitarian Sr Brigid Reynolds, former Director of Waterford Museum of Treasures Eamonn McEneaney and Director of the Griffin Hotel Group Liam Griffin will all also be honoured with doctorates.

The candidates’ nomination followed a rigorous process of selection by students, staff, and alumni of SETU with the final decision made by the SETU Governing Body.

Announcing the 2024 recipients, Chairperson of the SETU Governing Body and Chancellor of the University, Professor Patrick Prendergast said: "SETU is committed to celebrating excellence and recognising outstanding achievements of people in the south east, and further afield."

"We are proud to acclaim those who make important and lasting contributions to society," he stated.

"The five honourees are an inspiration to us all and we are proud that they have accepted to become part of our university community," Mr Prendergast added.

"These awards align with SETU’s mission to place education, creativity, and talent at the core of our region’s economic, social, and cultural growth," President of SETU, Professor Veronica Campbell commented.

"They also reflect our ambitions to position SETU as a leading technological university on both a European and global scale. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the five nominees on their upcoming conferral," she concluded.