Linda welcomed Taoiseach Micheál Martin to Trinity to deliver the inaugural Chuck Feeney Lecture to a full Edmund Burke theatre.  

Hosted by the Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), the event marked the first in an annual series of lectures in honour of the late philanthropist Chuck Feeney. It also marked the 10th anniversary of GBHI, which was established in 2015 through Chuck Feeney’s Atlantic Philanthropies foundation. 

In his speech, the Taoiseach reflected on the impact of Chuck Feeney’s work both in Ireland and globally. Linda, in her remarks, focused on Chuck’s strong belief in research and evidence-informed policy making. 

Other speakers on the evening included, Christopher G Oechsli, President and CEO of The Atlantic Philanthropies, who reflected on Chuck Feeney’s legacy; and former President Mary Robinson, who discussed equity and climate justice. 

A panel discussion included contributions from Dr Rupa Marya, Adjunct Professor of Land, Food and Medicine in Trinity; Kimberley Benjamin, Attorney-at-Law, Atlantic Fellow; and Prof. Ian Robertson, Founding Director, GBHI at Trinity. The panel covered many themes, including the power of altruism, the etymology of the word ‘wellness’, and Ireland’s food sovereignty.  

The event concluded with remarks from GBHI Founding Director, Prof. Brian Lawlor. 

Feature left to right: Christopher G Oeschli, former President and CEO, Atlantic Philanthropies; Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland; Juno Gerolmo-Feeney; Micheál Martin, Taoiseach; Helga Feeney; Dr Linda Doyle, Provost, Trinity; Prof. Iracema Leroi, GBHI Site Director, Trinity. Photo: Paul Sharp.