Nine honorary graduates from QUB were acknowledged, including Dornan, for their achievements in the areas of business, education, medicine, the arts, sports, public service, and the local community.

The two-time Irish Film and Television Award winner, who is also a nominee for the Bafta and Golden Globes, described receiving a doctorate for achievement in the arts as a “huge honour.”

“My dad attended this university; there are pictures of my dad in my house with a similar robe on,” Dornan remarked.

“I’m very proud to be involved in this great university.”

Former Aston Martin F1 strategist and Queen alumna Bernadette Collins expressed her gratitude for receiving an honorary doctorate in sport.

The Sky Sports analyst expressed her hope that future students studying mechanical and aerospace engineering will be motivated to realise the "exciting possibilities" that lie ahead.

Mark Durkan, the former leader of the SDLP, and Quintin Oliver, a conflict resolution expert born in Belfast who created the Yes Campaign for the Good Friday Agreement referendum, were chosen to receive doctorates for excellence in public service.

Recipient of a doctorate for contributions to the community, former Sinn Féin general secretary Tom Hartley was also acknowledged for his role in the peace process.

Ann McGregor, who led the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry for fifteen years, was chosen by QUB to receive a Doctor of Science in Economics in recognition of her contributions to industry and commerce.

Marie Lacey, the founder, and director of Belfast Community Gospel Choir (BCGC) was also honoured for her contributions to the arts.

“I am incredibly humbled to receive an honorary doctorate from Queen's University,” she declared. Since music has the ability to unite people, I have devoted my life to using it to better the community.”

Ajay Kakkar was selected for a Doctor of Medical Science for distinction in medicine in acknowledgment of his commitment to enhancing healthcare for public service.

Garrett Curran had a 30-year career spanning several commercial sectors, including senior positions at major blue-chip firms and assistance for smaller, fast-growing businesses. He was chosen for a Doctor of Science in Economics for services to business, commerce, and education.

According to QUB, Mr. Curran is a fervent supporter of inclusive, high-quality education and has backed several nonprofit organisations that further this goal.

He serves on the boards of numerous nonprofit organisations, one of which being the Queen's University Foundation Board.

Mr Curran continued: “A career path starts long before the first day in the office, education plays a critical role and making education more accessible for young people from across Northern Ireland is an area I’m hugely committed to.”

Professor Ian Greer, President, and Vice Chancellor of Queen’s University stated: “We are honoured to confer honorary degrees on this group of extraordinarily accomplished and inspirational people today.

They have all played a significant role in putting Belfast and Northern Ireland on the map and we are honoured that they will be part of the Queen’s community.”