Athlone Institute of Technology has conferred its highest honour on Longford-Westmeath Deputy, Nicky McFadden.
AIT president, Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin, presented the institute’s Distinguished Fellowship to the hugely popular Athlone politician in an intimate ceremony at her home last week.
AIT’s Distinguished Fellowship recognises individuals who have made continuing significant contributions to society, Ireland, the Midlands, or to the development and advancement of AIT.
Professor Ó Catháin said,“Nicky McFadden has been a wonderful ambassador and advocate for Athlone Institute of Technology. She has championed the cause of the institute at the highest political level, as well as being a valuable supporter of our mission locally in Athlone. Nicky served on our governing body and brought her valuable experience to bear in furthering the development of the institute. In short, Nicky is a wonderful friend.”
The president said that he was “honoured and delighted” to confer AIT’s 11th Distinguished Fellowship. “This is an elite grouping,” he said, “whose membership today has been greatly enriched by the addition of Nicky McFadden”.
Nicky McFadden was appointed to the governing body of AIT in April 2005 and served until 2007, when she was elected to Seanad Éireann (administrative panel ).
The McFadden family has a long association with AIT. Brendan McFadden, Nicky’s father, served on the board of the college for many years, while her sister Gabrielle, is a current member of the governing body.
