The philosopher Richard Kearney and US healthcare innovator Michael Dowling have been awarded this year’s Research Ireland St Patrick’s Day Medals.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin presented the medals at a ceremony in Washington on Thursday. The awards honour academic and industry leaders in the US, including their contribution to Irish research and collaboration between Ireland and the US.
Mr Martin said their achievements “illustrate the exceptional work being carried out by the Irish research diaspora across the US”.
“The leadership and innovation of Prof Kearney and Mr Dowling have been impactful across diverse areas, from aiding peace agreements to improving healthcare access,” he added.
Prof Kearney, who is from Co Cork, holds the Seelig chair of philosophy at Boston College. He is author of more than 30 books on European philosophy and literature, including The Irish Mind, Navigations: Selected Irish Essays, and most recently Hosting Earth: Facing the Climate Emergency.
He is a former member of the Arts Council and Higher Education Authority and served as chairman of the Irish School of Film at UCD. He was also involved in drafting proposals for the Northern Irish peace agreement. His most recent novel, Salvage, set in West Cork, is being adapted for film.
Prof Kearney said he was honoured to receive the medal. “My connection with Ireland has always been central to my career. Bringing people together to share stories and perspectives is key to addressing our era’s greatest challenges,” he said.
“Collaborations and exchanges can help to transcend divides and build peace and reconciliation. I look forward to continuing my work with colleagues in both the US and Ireland to strengthen empathy and understanding.”
As president and chief executive of the nonprofit Northwell Health, Mr Dowling oversees the largest healthcare provider in New York state, caring for more than two million people annually through 21 hospitals and more than 900 outpatient facilities.
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He has invested heavily in Northwell’s research arm, helping to transform treatment of lupus, arthritis, sepsis, cancer, psychiatric illness and Alzheimer’s disease. He was commended for a visionary approach to medical education and for initiating programmes to expand primary care access, particularly for the uninsured.
Mr Dowling, a Co Limerick native, said the award was recognition of his efforts to improve health outcomes for patients.
“In our work, it is vital to remain open to new knowledge. Partnerships with Irish companies continue to provide new perspectives that help to improve patient care in the US, Ireland and beyond.”
Celine Fitzgerald, interim chief executive at Research Ireland, said their work had “enriched our research, development and innovation landscape”.
“Our strong collaborative links with the research community in the US mutually benefit both countries and we look forward to continuing to build on this into the future,” she said.