Ulster, Ireland and British and Irish Lions rugby union star Iain Henderson honoured by QUB with honorary degree

The former Queen’s student and Ulster Rugby captain has been honoured for his exceptional achievements, including leading Ireland and the British and Irish Lions.

Henderson’s accolades include the Six Nations Championship, Grand Slam and Triple Crown victories, cementing his place as one of Ireland's most celebrated athletes.

Iain said: “I am deeply honoured and profoundly grateful to receive an Honorary Doctorate from Queen’s University Belfast.

"This prestigious recognition is not only for myself but extends to my colleagues, coaches, fellow players, friends and family who have inspired and supported me throughout my career.

“I am truly humbled to be acknowledged by such an esteemed institution known for its academic excellence and rich history. I would like to sincerely thank the University for this incredible honour.”

Also being recognised is former Irish News Editor, Noel Doran, who is being awarded his Doctorate for services to journalism.

He is the former longest-serving daily newspaper editor on the island of Ireland and the UK, having been at the helm of The Irish News for 25 years until April 2024.

One student who overcame incredible barriers was Dr James Todd, who graduated with a PhD in Social Work on Monday.

He started his career as a technician at his former school after dropping out of Queen’s at the age of 20.

He then took on rehabilitation work with people who were registered blind.

This change of direction sparked a lifelong passion for social care and led him to train as a social worker, including completing a postgraduate award in Mental Health Social Work at Queen’s.

His passion for adult protection eventually led him to propose a part-time PhD to his employer.

The focus was on the role of social workers in supporting adults who had been the victims of abuse. His research has already had a significant impact on policy.

However he achieved all this while facing significant health challenges, as he suffers with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

Despite undergoing various treatments, chronic pain severely affected his quality of life and his ability to work and study.

Eventually he opted for the amputation of his foot while undertaking his PhD.

James said: “While many people showed an interest in how I felt about ‘losing my foot’ I actually never felt that it was a loss; it really felt much more positive than that. I ‘got-rid’ of my foot and now have one that enables me to walk in excess of 10,000 steps a day. “Throughout this period, I received unwavering support from Queen’s and my supervisors, who not only encouraged my academic progress but also cared for my emotional wellbeing. Even while taking a six-month leave of absence for surgery, I was determined to complete my PhD. I returned embracing this new chapter with resilience and optimism."

He added: “This journey has taught me that perseverance pays off, and that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, no matter the obstacles in your way. “I hope my experience can encourage others to keep going in life, as well as in their studies. I may well have started my academic life with Queen’s as a drop-out, but I’m concluding it with pride in my PhD.”