South East Technological University (SETU) conferred honorary doctorates on John Treacy and Elizabeth Riordan-Coppin in recognition of their outstanding contributions to Irish life through sport, leadership, and advocacy for human rights and justice.
The conferring ceremony, held yesterday at SETU Arena, marked the third consecutive year the University has celebrated individuals who have made a lasting impact on Irish society.
John Treacy
John Treacy, one of Ireland’s most distinguished athletes, was honoured for his achievements on the world stage, his lifelong dedication to public service and humanitarianism, and his commitment to the development of sport and health in Ireland.
After receiving his award, the Villierstown native expressed his pride and gratitude, saying, “I am truly delighted to receive this honorary doctorate from SETU. It means so much to me to receive it in my home county.”
Mr Treacy’s journey to sporting greatness began on home soil and led to global acclaim. He burst onto the international scene with back-to-back gold medals at the IAAF World Cross Country Championships in 1978 and 1979, before capturing the hearts of a nation with his silver medal performance in the marathon at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Later victories at the Los Angeles Marathon in 1992 and the Dublin Marathon in 1993 cemented his place among Ireland’s most accomplished distance runners.
When his competitive career came to an end, Mr Treacy turned his focus to public service, becoming the Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council in 1999 and later leading Sport Ireland.
“It has been quite a journey from running in the Waterford colours, to representing Providence College, and eventually wearing the Irish colours at the Olympics Games.
“It was an honour to serve as the first CEO of the Irish Sports Council and Sport Ireland. Looking back to Paris last year and the incredible success of our athletes, we could never have imagined such results at the Olympic Games.
“What’s even more gratifying is seeing participation in sport grow across all levels, with opportunities now open to everyone, irrespective of ability.”
Beyond sport, Mr Treacy’s leadership extended to humanitarian and civic life. He helped to uphold high standards of governance and public trust as Chair of Concern Worldwide, and championed social development and regional growth as Chair of the Port of Waterford Company.
Reflecting on these roles, John said, “It was a privilege to chair the board of Concern Worldwide. It is an outstanding organisation working in some of the most deprived regions of the world.
“I have immense admiration for the people of Concern and their dedication in the field. And now, to be back in my home county chairing the Port of Waterford Company, I find myself once again surrounded by outstanding people committed to ensuring the Port’s success for the next 50 years.”
Acknowledging the support of those closest to him, he added, “I couldn’t have taken on this work without the help and support of my wife, Fionnuala, who is with me as I received this incredible honour from SETU.”
Elizabeth Riordan-Coppin
Equally recognised for her extraordinary contribution to Irish society, Elizabeth Riordan-Coppin was awarded an honorary doctorate for her courage, resilience and lifelong advocacy for human rights and social justice.
Born in St Columbanus County Home in Killarney, Co Kerry, Ms Riordan-Coppin spent her early years in Ireland’s industrial school and Magdalene Laundry system, including time in Waterford.
Sent to these institutions as a child, she has spoken about enduring harsh conditions, forced labour, and physical and psychological abuse, while being denied her freedom, education, and identity.
Despite this difficult start, Ms Riordan-Coppin later rebuilt a life in England as a nursery nurse, teacher, and mother.
Choosing to share her personal story publicly, she transformed the pain of her experience into a lifelong mission to speak out, not only for herself, but for the countless women whose voices had been silenced.
Elizabeth’s dignified campaign for justice culminated in a landmark case before the UN Committee Against Torture in 2020 – the first ever brought by a Magdalene survivor – urging Ireland to confront a difficult legacy of institutional mistreatment.
Her advocacy for Magdalene Laundry and Industrial School survivors has since shaped public discourse, informed national inquiries, and inspired future generations to seek justice with compassion and resolve.
Speaking at the ceremony, Elizabeth said, “To receive an Honorary Doctorate from SETU in Waterford is an unexpected and deeply moving experience. Little did I ever imagine, I would return to Waterford on a voluntary basis, close to one of the Magdalene Laundries where I was once confined, to receive such a magnificent and prestigious award.
“I feel honoured, and truly astonished. I am profoundly grateful to all the wonderful people who have supported me throughout my campaign, especially JFM Justice for Magdalene – Dr Maeve O’Rourke, Dr Claire McGettrick, born Lorraine Hughes, and Professor Katherine O’Donnell. I would also like to thank Dr Jennifer O’Mahoney and Dr Kate McCarthy from this University for recommending me for this honorary doctorate.”
“Finally, this honour means recognition not only for me but for the thousands of women and girls trafficked by the State and their agents to Magdalene Laundries,” she added.
Both recipients were selected through a nomination process involving SETU students, staff, and alumni, with the final decision made by the University’s Governing Body.
