Patrick Kielty Receives Honorary Doctorate from Ulster University
Broadcaster and comedian Patrick Kielty has been awarded an honorary doctorate from Ulster University in recognition of his “outstanding contribution to the arts.” The 53-year-old from County Down joined thousands of Class of 2024 graduates celebrating their achievements in ceremonies held in Belfast, Coleraine, and Londonderry.
Patrick Kielty
Kielty, who took over as host of Irish broadcaster RTÉ’s The Late Late Show last year, offered candid advice to students considering a career in the arts and entertainment industry. At Monday’s ceremony, he quipped, “Don’t. Clearly, older comedians like me still need to work so I would say do a degree and go into something completely different – please don’t come and steal my dinner.”
Another honorary doctorate recipient was community activist Betty Carlisle, honored for her efforts in promoting shared education and empowering women from disadvantaged and deprived areas of Northern Ireland. Former President of Ireland Mary Robinson and artist Oliver Jeffers are also among this year’s distinguished honorees.
Ulster University Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew stated that the university’s aim is to celebrate “inspirational local people making a global impact.”
