In 2023, VentureWave Capital honored Mary McAleese with the Impact Ireland Award, recognizing her significant contributions to peace, social justice, and education.
Mary McAleese served as the eighth President of Ireland from 1997 to 2011, becoming the first individual from Northern Ireland to hold this esteemed position. Her presidency was marked by efforts to build bridges across communities, emphasizing reconciliation and social inclusion.
Before her presidency, McAleese had a distinguished academic and professional career. In 1975, she was appointed Reid Professor of Criminal Law, Criminology, and Penology at Trinity College Dublin. She also served as Pro-Vice Chancellor of Queen’s University Belfast, highlighting her commitment to education and legal scholarship.
Beyond her academic pursuits, McAleese has advocated for human rights and social justice. She has been recognized with numerous honors, including being named a Member of the Royal Irish Academy in 1998 and receiving the Dignité de Grand Officier de l’Ordre National du Mérite from France in 2019.
In 2019, she was elected Chancellor of Trinity College Dublin, succeeding Mary Robinson in this prestigious role.
McAleese remains a prominent voice in social issues, education, and human rights discussions, reflecting her enduring commitment to public service and advocacy.
