Susan Ann Davis has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Ulster University’s Senate and Council. The distinction recognises her outstanding contributions to business, women’s leadership, and entrepreneurship, alongside her enduring commitment to driving peace and economic prosperity in Northern Ireland.
Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University conferred the honorary degree of Doctor of the University.
A Transatlantic Champion for Peace and Prosperity
With family roots in Cork and Clare, Davis has maintained a deep connection with the island of Ireland for more than two decades. She has continually leveraged her extensive networks and influence in the United States to support the peace process, reinforce transatlantic relationships, and generate new economic opportunities.
Today, Davis serves as the bipartisan Co-Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee to Protect the Good Friday Agreement. In this role, she collaborates closely with political and civic leaders across Belfast, Dublin, London, and Washington, D.C., to safeguard one of the defining diplomatic achievements of modern history and sustain active U.S. diplomatic engagement in the region.
Bridging International Research and Innovation
Davis has also been a pivotal force in aligning the scientific and academic capabilities of Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and the United States. As Chair of the U.S.–Ireland Business Summit, she conceived and helped negotiate the groundbreaking U.S.–Ireland R&D Partnership.
Since its inception, this tri-jurisdictional alliance has grown into a highly successful engine of innovation, funding 107 collaborative research projects with a combined government investment of more than $196 million (£144M / €170M) across key sectors like healthcare,
Empowering Global Leadership
A lifelong advocate for women’s leadership, Davis is the Board Chair Emeritus of the Vital Voices Global Partnership and a co- founder and first International President of the International Women’s Forum. Through intentional mentorship, advocacy, and strategic leadership, she has successfully expanded socioeconomic networks for women worldwide.
As the founder and Chair of Susan Davis International (SDI), she built a premier global public affairs and strategic communications firm that advises corporate and government leaders internationally.
Her commitment to nurturing future generations is further reflected in her longtime support of the Washington Ireland Program. The program brings together promising young leaders from diverse backgrounds across Northern Ireland and Ireland to develop the leadership skills and shared understanding vital for a progressive, post-conflict society.
Susan Ann Davis said:
“I am deeply touched to receive this honorary doctorate from Ulster University. Northern Ireland and its people have held a very special place in my life for more than two decades, and it has been a privilege to support the relationships, partnerships and opportunities that have helped to sustain peace and build prosperity.
“I believe in the power of bringing people together – across communities, sectors and borders – and in creating opportunities for others to lead and succeed. I am enormously grateful to Ulster University for this honour and proud to become part of its community.”
Ulster University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Bartholomew, said:
“Susan Davis has made an exceptional and sustained contribution to Northern Ireland. Her commitment to peace and prosperity, her ability to build relationships across political and international boundaries, and her determination to create opportunities for others have had a lasting impact.
“From safeguarding the Good Friday Agreement and strengthening transatlantic relationships to creating opportunities for impactful research collaboration and advancing women’s leadership, Susan exemplifies the power of leadership exercised with purpose and generosity. It is a privilege for Ulster University to recognise her remarkable contribution with our highest honour.”
