St Mary’s University College was delighted to welcome the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, to campus on Thursday 23 April for an important civic engagement visit.

Hosted by the Principal, Professor Peter Finn, the visit provided an opportunity for St Mary’s to outline the College’s distinctive mission and demonstrate its strong contribution to education, community engagement and its international outlook. The Lord Mayor met with staff over lunch, where discussions focused on areas of shared interest including partnership working, community engagement and opportunities for future international collaboration, especially in connection with Belfast’s  Sister City of Nashville, Tennessee.

The visit also included a tour of the College, highlighting recent campus developments including the new College Hall & Courtyard, the Cardinal Newman Library and Beechmount Dining Hall as well as the Student Lounge. The Lord Mayor had the opportunity to meet staff and students, gaining insight into the vibrant academic community at St Mary’s and the impact of its work locally, across communities and internationally.

As Councillor Kelly approaches the end of her term as Lord Mayor, the College was particularly pleased to acknowledge the positive relationship established with St Mary’s during her tenure. The College looks forward to building on this strong foundation with her successor and continuing to strengthen its partnership with Belfast City Council in support of shared civic, educational and community priorities.

St Mary’s extends its sincere thanks to the Lord Mayor for her visit and for her support during her term of office.

Welcoming Belfast Lord Mayor to St Mary’s L-R Prof. Gerard McCann, Sharon Haughey, College Principal Prof. Peter Finn, Michelle Di Lucia and John Brolly.