Breakthrough star of Oscar-winning film is honored by the University of Ulster
The breakthrough Oscar-winning film star, born in Belfast, is being honored by the University of Ulster.
Actor James Martin was part of the cast of the short film An Irish Goodbye, which won major awards this year.
Martin is the first actor with Down syndrome to win an Oscar.
He joins gymnast Rhys McClenaghan, poet Michael Longley and broadcaster Sean Rafferty on the honors graduates of Ulster University this year.
I am delighted to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Ulster in recognition of my contribution to An Irish Goodbye.
Martin said the impact of his win and recognition has been very positive.
“I am delighted to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Ulster in recognition of my contribution to An Irish Goodbye,” he said.
“We had a great team working on the film, which told a universal story that people really connected to and enjoyed watching.
“The impact on people with learning disabilities has been very positive.”
Honorary graduates also include Sara Booth, Head of Competitions at Fifa Women’s Football Department, Lyn Moffett for Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution, Anne McVicker, Director of the Women’s Resource and Development Agency, Kieran Kennedy for Building Economic Diversity in the North West, and Lisa Brankin, Graduate from Ulster University and current Managing Director of Ford UK & Ireland.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ulster, Professor Paul Bartholomew, described degrees as “a time to celebrate”.
“At the University of Ulster we work to produce diverse, qualified and experienced graduates. In doing so, we also identify and celebrate positive role models for our graduates to aspire to,” he said.
“These awardees are individuals who are making a real difference in their local or global community in diverse areas such as the arts, sports, peacebuilding and community work, business, health and social work.
We recognize those who have made and continue to make significant contributions to our society
“As Northern Ireland celebrates the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement, it is right that we both reflect on where we came from and the direction we are going.
“We recognize those who have made and continue to make significant contributions to our society and the University of Ulster is delighted to celebrate this cohort of exceptional role models who demonstrate leadership, perseverance, integrity, innovative thinking, determination, talent and creativity. They inspire us all.”
The honorary doctorate will be awarded during the summer graduation ceremonies taking place at all three Ulster University campuses from 29 June to 7 July.
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/james-martin-oscar-actor-ulster-belfast-b1082674.html Breakthrough star of Oscar-winning film is honored by the University of Ulster
