This year's cohort, which includes Samantha Barry from US Glamour and artist Oliver Jeffers, is honoured to serve as an inspiration to the university's graduates.

It occurs amid a year of festivities honouring the university's 175-year history as the Belfast School of Art.

Mr. Jeffers expressed his pride at having the opportunity to return to Belfast School of Art this summer.

An institution that is “intrinsic to the city's artistic and cultural heritage” is the Belfast School of Art, where he formerly studied design for visual communication.

“Now dividing my time between Belfast and New York, this award strengthens my connection with the place where I grew up and I am grateful to Ulster University for the honour,” he stated.

“However, I do hope I'm never on a flight when they ask if there's a doctor on board,” he said.

Ms. Barry, who is originally from County Cork and is currently residing in New York City as Glamour's global editorial director for the Americas, is being honoured for her accomplishments in journalism. She changed the publication's yearly Women of the Year awards to support diversity.

“I am delighted to have been recognised by Ulster University for my work and so excited to be visiting this summer to join the occasion with thousands of graduates as they celebrate after years of hard work and prepare to embark on their careers,” she stated.

Betty Carlisle will be honoured for her work advancing shared education and empowering women from underprivileged and deprived areas; Eamonn Mallie will be recognised for his significant contribution to journalism and broadcasting; and Sister Nuala Kelly will be honoured for her outstanding service to the community following her transformation of St. Louisa's College in west Belfast.

Professor Paul Bartholomew, vice-chancellor of Ulster University, stated that the institution wants to honour remarkable locals who are having an international influence.

“Graduation is a special time of year as we celebrate our outstanding graduates as they come together with friends and family to mark their wonderful achievements,” he stated.

According to Professor Bartholomew, “We are dedicated to fostering the next generation of leaders who will, in the years that follow their time at Ulster University, go on to make a significant impact in their communities and respective professions.”

“With that future in mind, it is a joy to celebrate the work of those inspirational and acclaimed local faces already making a global impact, and we are thrilled to bestow these honorary doctorates.”

He went on to say, “these individuals are leaders in their fields and demonstrate great talent, creativity and integrity.”

According to Professor Bartholomew, the institution is hoping that “they will be an inspiration to the whole Ulster University community.”

The summer graduation ceremonies in Belfast, Coleraine, and Derry, which take place from July 1 to July 9, will award the honorary doctorates.