Honorary MTU doctorates for Mary Crilly and Mary Davis

Munster Technological University (MTU) has honoured Mary Crilly, founding member of the Sexual Violence Centre Cork, and Mary Davis, former Special Olympics International chief executive with honorary doctorates.

The awards were presented at MTUs Bishopstown campus as part of the university’s 2026 conferring ceremonies.

Ms Crilly served as the centre’s chief executive for more than four decades. Her campaigning has helped to shape public attitudes, policy and legislation towards sexual and domestic violence, human trafficking and women’s rights.

She said she was “honoured” by the recognition and hoped it encouraged a new generation to continue challenging injustice and standing up for the rights of others. “When we established the Sexual Violence Centre Cork in 1983, there was so much silence surrounding sexual violence and so many barriers facing those seeking support. We have come a long way, but there is still important work to be done.”

She added that the honour is also a recognition of the many courageous survivors who had shared their experiences and the dedicated people who had worked alongside her over the years.

Ms Davis was recognised for her ‘exceptional contribution to the Special Olympics movement and her commitment to advancing inclusion and opportunity for people with intellectual disabilities’.

She held leadership roles both nationally and internationally, including CEO of Special Olympics Ireland and Global CEO of Special Olympics International. 

She played a central role in expanding the organisation’s reach to more than 195 countries, including leading the organisation of the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Ireland, the first held outside the United States.

Ms Davis said: 

“My journey with Special Olympics began as a volunteer, and I could never have imagined where it would take me. 

"Throughout that journey, I have been inspired by the determination, courage and achievements of our athletes, who continue to show us what is possible when people are given the opportunity to reach their potential.”