2022
Inspirational leader recognised by UCC
An inspirational leader in the field of medicine has been awarded an honorary doctorate by University College Cork (UCC), as close to 200 medical students graduated from the university today.
Dr. Veronica Delaney grew up in Cork city and graduated with a B.Sc Honours majoring in Biochemistry from UCC in 1964. She would go onto become a leader in her field. Dr Delaney (78) is currently Professor of Medicine and Nephrologist at Mount Sinai Hospital New York, and was the first member of her family to enter University.
After graduating from UCC she proceeded to complete a Ph.D at University of London, St. Mary's Hospital, followed by medical studies at St. Mary's Hospital graduating in 1973 with Honours and First Place in Medicine. She was widowed around this time and returned to Dublin for Internship and medical residency with two young children. Her career subsequently brought her to Kuwait, Atlanta, where she then completed nephrology training, Pittsburgh, and finally to New York.
While in UCC she also excelled in tennis, hockey and squash, captaining in both tennis and hockey and playing for Munster. Today she was awarded an Honorary Degree by UCC in Medicine.
"I had many wonderful years at University College Cork and I am honoured to receive this honorary doctorate today” stated Dr Delaney, who was surprised at the ceremony by her daughter, a diplomat, and former UN ambassador, Samantha Power.
“My mother’s love of learning was sparked at UCC—a love she passed on to me. Watching her continue to treat patients with curiosity and compassion five decades into her medical career remains an inspiration, and I am so thankful that UCC has decided to recognise her impact in the world,” she said.
“Veronica been a tremendous ambassador for UCC for over 50 years, and continues to work as a Consultant Nephrologist, Teacher and role model in the Mount Sinai Hospital, New York. For years she worked as a widow and single mother, with great challenges which she faced head on. She will always remain a role model for current and future generations” stated Professor John O’Halloran, President of UCC.
‘’Dr Delaney has been a tremendous representative for UCC over the years, still working as a Consultant Nephrologist and Teacher in the Mount Sinai Hospital New York, she has made extraordinary contributions to medicine. She will always remain an inspiration for coming generations and I am delighted UCC has selected her for an Honorary Degree. She Is indeed a most worthy and outstanding recipient and we are truly honoured to have her here today’’ stated Professor Helen Whelton, Head of the College of Medicine at UCC.