Sr Brigid Reynolds awarded honorary doctorate
Sr Brigid Reynolds, co-founder of Social Justice Ireland, was awarded an honorary doctorate from South East Technological University (SETU) on Wednesday 30th October. Brigid was chosen as a recipient in recognition of her lifelong dedication to social justice and the empowerment of marginalised communities.
Educator and Humanitarian
Professor Veronica Campbell, President of South East Technological University, read the citation at the conferral of the honorary doctorate, recognising Brigid as an educator and humanitarian, whose life and work serves as a shining example of the transformative power of compassion, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to the greater good.
The citation acknowledged Brigid Reynolds as a dedicated advocate for social justice, who combines academic expertise, moral conviction and an unwavering commitment to ensuring that the voice of the vulnerable and the marginalised is represented in public policy debate. Originally from Mohill, Co Leitrim, Brigid completed a science degree at University College Dublin before joining the Marist Sisters Religious Order. On profession, her first assignment was to Kaduna, North Nigeria, where she lectured at a Teacher Training College, and began her lifework of social justice advocacy as secretary to an Episcopal Commission, which worked to tackle poverty and promote social inclusion, and as spiritual director for women’s organisations.
On her return to Ireland in 1980, she was recruited by the Conference of Major Religious Superiors, later known as the Conference of Religious of Ireland (CORI). In 1983, she was joined in CORI by Fr Seán Healy and together they spearheaded CORI’s Justice Commission which advocated for social justice through education, policy development, engaging with government and civil society, and promoting and commenting on social justice issues through the media. In 2009, the pair co-founded Social Justice Ireland, which they led until their retirement in 2023. Brigid’s vision, commitment and dedication were central to the success of Social Justice Ireland as an independent advocacy organisation that focuses on promoting social justice, sustainable development, and equitable economic policies.
South East Technological University and Social Justice Ireland currently collaborate on the delivery of a Master’s degree in Social Justice and Public Policy to which Brigid has generously contributed her expertise. Her contribution to the literature on public policy in Ireland is substantial: indeed, she has co-authored or co-edited over forty books on public policy or on spirituality for social engagement.
The award of Doctor of the University to Sr Brigid Reynolds is an acknowledgement of the indelible mark she has made on social justice advocacy, and a recognition of her commitment to addressing inequality, poverty, and social exclusion.
Brigid Reynolds was awarded the Honorary Doctorate by South East Technological University.