One of Ireland’s leading scientists, astrophysicist Dr Susan McKenna-Lawlor, emeritus Professor at Maynooth University Department of Experimental Physics and founder and director of Space Technology Ireland, received this year’s EY Special Award for her contribution to space science. The award was made at last night’s EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ ceremony.
Each year EY presents a Special Award to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the island of Ireland through their entrepreneurial vision, innovation and commitment to excellence. This year, the prestigious honour was awarded to Dr Susan McKenna-Lawlor.
Presenting Dr McKenna-Lawlor with the Special Award last night, Kevin McLoughlin, Partner Leader, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ Ireland said: “Dr McKenna-Lawlor is one of Ireland’s leading scientists, whose contribution to space exploration has inspired generations. She has authored more than 250 publications and several books, and overseen projects that have built instrumentation launched by the European Space Agency, NASA, and the Chinese, Indian and Russian Space Agencies – all thanks to her boundless ambition and insatiable thirst for knowledge.
Disruptive innovation such as this is the driver of modern day entrepreneurship, therefore it is appropriate that as we look forward to the 20th year of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year™ programme, we recognise an individual such as Dr McKenna-Lawlor who is an excellent example of just what can be achieved through a willingness to continually evolve and innovate.”
Speaking of the announcement Maynooth University President, Professor Philip Nolan said: “The University is delighted with this well deserved recognition of Dr McKenna-Lawlor’s extensive contribution to the field of space science. All of her colleagues extend their congratulations on this wonderful achievement.”