Belfast – September 20, 2026 -- Ulster University's Senate and Council have conferred an honorary Doctor of the University degree on Susan Ann Davis, citing her role in building a $196 million (£144M/€170M) U.S.-Ireland R&D partnership and her sustained diplomatic engagement supporting the Good Friday Agreement.
Ulster University Vice-Chancellor Confers Honorary Degree on Transatlantic Business Leader
Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, presented the honor to Davis in recognition of her contributions to business, women's leadership, entrepreneurship, and her long-standing commitment to peace and economic development in Northern Ireland.
Davis-Led Partnership Has Funded 107 Cross-Border Research Projects
As Chair of the U.S.-Ireland Business Summit, Davis conceived and helped negotiate the U.S.-Ireland R&D Partnership, a tri-jurisdictional alliance spanning the United States, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. The initiative has directed more than $196 million in combined government investment into 107 collaborative research projects across healthcare, cybersecurity, and telecommunications since its founding.
Davis Co-Chairs Committee Safeguarding Good Friday Agreement
Davis currently serves as bipartisan Co-Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee to Protect the Good Friday Agreement, working with political and civic leaders in Belfast, Dublin, London, and Washington, D.C. to maintain active U.S. diplomatic engagement in Northern Ireland and preserve the peace accord.
Founder of Global Public Affairs Firm Advances Women's Leadership
Davis founded and chairs Susan Davis International (SDI), a global public affairs and strategic communications firm advising corporate and government leaders. She also holds the title of Board Chair Emeritus of the Vital Voices Global Partnership and co-founded the International Women's Forum, serving as its first International President.
"I am deeply honored to receive this honorary doctorate from Ulster University," Davis said. "Northern Ireland and its people have held a very special place in my life for over two decades."