Among them is Sarah Friar who will receive a Doctor of Science in Economics for services to business and commerce.

Sarah, originally from Co. Tyrone and now based in the US, is a globally renowned businesswoman who has held several senior leadership positions, including CEO of Nextdoor, the hyperlocal social network. She is also the co-founder of Ladies Who Launch in San Francisco, a nonprofit that celebrates and empowers women entrepreneurs, and has invested in numerous start-ups in Northern Ireland.

Commenting on her Honorary Doctorate Sarah said:

I’m thrilled to return to my homeland, Northern Ireland to receive this honorary doctorate from Queen’s. The University’s focus on STEM, which is driving profound economic and social impacts globally, and its leadership in gender equality are truly inspiring. Both areas impacted the course of my career.

“Graduation is a very special time for all students and their families, I am delighted to be here joining them and I would like to congratulate the Class of 2024 on their achievements and wish them luck for their future careers.”

Former Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS), Sir David Sterling, will receive a Doctor of Laws for distinction in public service. With a career spanning over 40 years in the NICS, Sir David is currently Chair of NIE Networks, Northern Ireland Screen and the Chief Executives’ Forum in Northern Ireland. 

Sir David commented:

“I am proud to receive this honorary doctorate alongside such esteemed colleagues who have helped to pave the way in their respective areas.

“Education has always been the cornerstone of progress and innovation. I am delighted to be part of this year’s graduation cohort and wish them every success in their future endeavours.”

Also being recognised for their contribution to business and commerce is the former Vice President and Managing Director of AllState NI and the current Chair of Invest NI, John Healy; Belgian entrepreneur and Chairman of Mediahuis, a publisher of leading news brands, Thomas Leysen; and Director and Chief Executive of the Centre for Competitiveness Bob Barbour who will receive a Doctor of Science in Economics for services to business and innovation.

Civil Servant and Diplomat Lindy Cameron CB OBE, who is the current British High Commissioner to India, will also be honoured for her contribution to public service.

Known for her pioneering research on multiferroics, Professor Nicola Spaldin, Professor of Materials Theory at ETH Zurich, will receive a Doctor of Science for distinction in science whilst award-winning researcher and innovator Dr Johannes Noppen, the Chief Software Researcher at BT, will be recognised for distinction in engineering.

Queen’s University President and Vice Chancellor Professor Sir Ian Greer said:

“Queen’s is delighted to award Honorary Doctorates to these talented individuals who have made a significant contribution to society in Northern Ireland and further afield.

“They have all had tremendous success in their individual careers and continue to invest in Northern Ireland. We are thrilled to celebrate their global impact and are honoured they will now be part of the Queen’s community.”

The full list of Honorary Degrees to be awarded is:

• Bob Barbour, Doctor of Science in Economics for services to Business and Innovation
• Lindy Cameron CB OBE, Doctor of the University for distinction in Public Service
• Sarah Friar, Doctor of Science in Economics for services to Business and Commerce
• John Healy OBE, Doctor of Science in Economics for services to Business and Commerce
• Thomas Leysen, Doctor of Science in Economics for services to Business and Commerce
• Dr Johannes Noppen, Doctor of Science in Engineering for distinction in Engineering
• Professor Nicola Spaldin, Doctor of Science for distinction in Science
• Sir David Sterling, Doctor of Laws for distinction in Public Service

The Honorary Doctorates will be conferred at a special ceremony on Tuesday, 25 June. Queen’s summer graduations will run from Thursday, 27 June to 4 July.

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