Pictured: Neil Johnson receiving his Honorary Doctorate Degree in Laws (LLD) from University of Galway president, Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh.
The University of Galway has conferred its highest possible award, an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Laws (LLD), to heart and stroke charity Croí CEO and founder & interim CEO of NIPC, Neil Johnson.
Neil Johnson who was appointed the first CEO of Croí in April 1992 was one of 10 individuals to receive this prestigious award from the President of the University at the recent winter conferring ceremonies in Galway. Speaking at the ceremony, Prof Martin O’Donnell, Dean of the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at University of Galway outlined how Johnson whose previous awards include; Galway Person of the Year; Marketing Person of the Year; World Heart Federation ‘Heart Hero’ and European Patients Forum Inaugural ‘Hall of Fame’ award, receives this honorary doctorate for excellence in leadership, innovation and unwavering commitment to advancing cardiovascular health nationally and internationally.
Johnson steps down as CEO of Croí at the end of this month after almost 32 years at the helm when he moves to an international role as Executive Director of the Global Heart Hub, the first global alliance of international heart patient organisations. He will be succeeded as Croí CEO by Mark O’Donnell who takes up the position from January 1st.