Queen’s University Belfast has celebrated two remarkable leaders, Libby Duane Adams and Ambassador Jane Hartley, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to diplomacy, business, and global society at a special Honorary Degree ceremony held in New York.
Olivia Duane Adams received an Honorary Doctorate in Science in Economics for her pioneering contributions to the tech industry whilst the University conferred an Honorary Doctor of Laws upon Ambassador Hartley, acknowledging her distinguished career in public service and diplomacy.
As co-founder of Alteryx and throughout her three decades with the company, Ms Duane Adams has been instrumental in transforming data analytics and AI accessibility worldwide. She also played a key role in floating Alteryx on the stock market, placing her amongst only a handful of female founders to take a tech company public. She said of the recognition:
“It is such an honour to receive a Doctorate in Science in Economics from Queen’s University Belfast.
“When I joined the tech industry in 1997, women were so heavily underrepresented, but I didn’t let this deter me from what I wanted to pursue. I’m overjoyed today to see how the industry has grown and changed, with women taking leading roles because they have the passion and the skills to modernize every business across every industry. Representation is so important, a belief I know is shared with Queen’s, and I will continue to champion women in the world of tech, globally.”
Ms Duane Adams’s commitment to entrepreneurship and education has been illustrated through initiatives spearheaded to support and empower students. Under her leadership, Alteryx gifted data licences to staff and students at Queen’s, investing in their future through providing access to world-class analytical tools.
Ambassador Hartley served as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from 2022 to 2025, following her tenure as Ambassador to France and Monaco. Her dedication to international relations, economic policy, and global security has had a profound impact on transatlantic partnerships and strengthened ties with Northern Ireland.
Speaking of the honour, Ambassador Hartley said: “I am so honored and thrilled to receive your Doctor of Laws Honorary degree. Queen’s is a beacon to the community, a beacon to the country and in some cases, it is a beacon to the world. We know what a first-class education can do for a community.”
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The ceremony underscored Queen’s commitment to celebrating and promoting female leadership across all fields. Speaking about the significance of these awards, Queen’s President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, commented:
“As a globally focused institution, Queen’s remains dedicated to nurturing meaningful international relationships that support academic collaboration, economic development, and social progress. We are delighted to acknowledge the contributions of both Ms Duane Adams and Ambassador Hartley through these Honorary Degrees.
“Ms Duane Adams has served as a true innovator in the technology industry, paving the way for future generations of women in business and technology whilst Ambassador Hartley has made a lasting impact as a diplomat, fostering strong relationships between the United States and Northern Ireland. Both their contributions have greatly benefited our University, our region and the wider global community."
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