UCD honours former US Ambassador whose grandparents came from Mayo

Former US Ambassador to Ireland, Kevin F O'Malley, who has family links to Mayo was honoured with an Honorary Doctorate from University College Dublin.

Ambassador O’Malley, who served as US Ambassador to Ireland from 2014 to 2017 was honoured by the Dublin university for his remarkable career as a diplomat, lawyer, and advocate for transatlantic partnership.

A native of St Louis, Missouri, the former ambassador is the grandson of Michael and Elizabeth O’Malley, who emigrated from Westport to Chicago in 1910 with seven of their children. Another eight arrived in the US, including the ambassador’s father.

In awarding him with the honour, UCD stated that his tenure was marked not just by diplomacy, but by empathy and innovation, ensuring the bonds between Ireland and the United States grew deeper, more dynamic, and more forward-looking.

“One of his most enduring contributions was the Creative Minds Series, an initiative that brought together young Irish and American leaders in business, technology, the arts, and culture. By providing a platform for emerging voices, the programme highlighted his belief that the future of diplomacy lies in creativity, collaboration, and the energy of youth,” UCD stated.

Since leaving his ambassadorship, Ambassador O’Malley has continued to champion Ireland through his role on the UCD College of Business North America Advisory Board, where he mentors graduates, supports alumni, and strengthens connections between UCD and US business and civic leaders. 

His unique insight into government, education, and public service has been instrumental in opening doors for the next generation of UCD students and graduates.

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At the Honorary Doctorate Ceremony, Professor Tony Brabazon, Dean of the UCD College of Business, said: “Kevin O’Malley has always understood that true diplomacy is about people. He built bridges not just between governments, but between communities, cultures, and generations. His leadership has inspired young people to think globally and act with purpose. We are honoured to recognise his extraordinary contributions with this degree.”

Kevin O’Malley studied law at Saint Louis University before embarking on a career that spanned public service, law, and international diplomacy. As a lawyer he rose to national prominence, recognised among the top 1 percent of attorneys in the United States as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. In 2014, he was nominated by President Barack Obama to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Ireland — a role in which he left a lasting legacy of partnership and progress.

“The reputation of UCD in the United States is unsurpassed and to receive this honour from the University is both humbling and greatly appreciated,” said Ambassador O’Malley. 

“These graduates have been very well prepared to handle the unique challenges which all of us are counting on them to master in the years ahead.”  

With this Honorary Doctorate, UCD celebrates Kevin O’Malley as a statesman, innovator, and friend whose vision and leadership continue to shape Ireland’s relationship with the wider world.