President Clinton visits Queen’s

The visit of former US President Bill Clinton to Queen’s on 5 March was the highlight of his trip to Northern Ireland.

The evening included the unveiling of a plaque officially naming the University’s Leadership Institute - which since last year has been known as the William J. Clinton Leadership Institute at Riddel Hall - and the delivery of the inaugural William J Clinton Leadership Lecture.

Hosting the President at the exclusive Queen's Foundation event was Professor Patrick Johnston, who took up post on Monday 3 March as President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen's. Welcoming Mr Clinton, he said: “This is an historic occasion for Queen’s. It is also a proud moment for me as I begin my tenure as Vice-Chancellor and it is a landmark event in the life of Northern Ireland.

“We are honoured that President Clinton has given his name to our Leadership Institute and are delighted that he has joined us in person to set the seal on that partnership.

“Once again he is demonstrating his belief in Northern Ireland and its people, as he has done with such dedication and commitment in the recent past. Now he is giving his support to an Institute that will provide our community with the leaders of the future, in business and in public life.

“The William J Clinton Leadership Institute symbolises our purpose: to create positive change in our society, to provide opportunity for individuals, organisations and institutions to grow and, in his words, helping to build creative networks of co-operation.”

Chairman of the Queen’s Foundation, Mr Tom Lynch said: “We are privileged that President Clinton will deliver the inaugural Leadership lecture also named in his honour. As an Honorary Graduate of this University he is very much a member of the Queen’s family.

“The Foundation plays a vital role in securing philanthropic investment to help implement the University’s bold and imaginative plans. Over the past ten years, generous giving has transformed the academic life – and face – of the campus and enriched the student experience."

Speaking last year about the visit, the US Consul General in Belfast, Mr Gregory Burton, said: “The US Consulate commends the work of the Leadership Institute at Queen’s, whose members offer valuable synergies that help Northern Ireland’s economic position.

"We warmly welcome the Institute’s new association with President Clinton who has enjoyed significant connections to Northern Ireland both during, and beyond, his Presidency. We have every confidence that this exciting partnership will augment the outstanding reputation of Queen’s as a centre for professional training and academic excellence.”

 

Media inquiries to Queen’s University’s Head of Communications and External Affairs, Kevin Mulhern at +44 (0)28 9097 3259 / +44 (0)7813 015431 or k.mulhern@qub.ac.uk

Top of Page