Honorary Doctorate for Biochemistry graduate Dr Veronica Delaney

31 May 2022

Dr Veronica Delaney, an inspirational leader in the field of medicine, has been awarded an honorary doctorate by UCC. Dr. Delaney graduated from UCC in 1964 with a BSc Honours majoring in Biochemistry.

Dr Delaney 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 PhD 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.