Trinity European Laureate Award

Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on Ireland’s place within Europe and to consider the wider challenges and opportunities facing the Union today.

At Trinity, we are currently leading a major programme of events marking Ireland’s forthcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union, in partnership with Teneo, the global CEO advisory firm. The Trinity European Laureate Award is our highest honour, conferred on individuals or institutions who exemplify the European ideal through leadership, vision, and contribution to upholding and defending our European values.

Established by the Trinity Long Room Hub in partnership with Teneo, the Trinity European Laureate Award recognises outstanding contributions to European public life and policy.

Brochures

Download individual brochures for each European Laureate and discover their contributions to scholarship, public life, and society.

AI, Trade Wars, and the Future of Business

The Future of Europe and its Challenges

The Future of Research

The Future of Democracy

Laureates

Enda Kenny

Inaugural Laureate, 2025

Former Taoiseach of Ireland. Awarded in recognition of his contribution to European public life and leadership.

→ Listen back to the event
→ Read coverage

Former Taoiseach Enda Kenny presented with inaugural Trinity European Laureate Award - Trinity Long Room Hub
Europe ‘a little bit removed’ from US and will be more realistic in future decisions, says Kenny - The Irish Times
‘It’s a dangerous time’ – Enda Kenny says EU will be forced to make ‘realistic’ decisions in the coming decade - The Irish Independent

Patrick Geoghegan pictured with Danny McCoy recipient of Trinity European Laureate Award

Danny McCoy

Laureate, 2026

CEO of Ibec and economist, recognised for his contribution to European business, economic thought, and public life.

→ Listen back to the event
→ Read coverage

Ibec’s Danny McCoy presented with Trinity European Laureate Award - Trinity Long Room Hub
Ibec's Danny McCoy receives the Trinity European Laureate Award - Business Plus
Tuam man honoured for service to business - Tuam Herald

European Movement Ireland and Frances Fitzgerald receive Trinity European Laureate Award

European Movement Ireland (accepted by Julie Sinnamon), and former MEP and Minister Frances Fitzgerald

Laureate, 2026

In recognition of their outstanding contributions to civic society, public engagement, and equality across Europe.

→ Listen back to the event
→ Read coverage

European Movement Ireland and Frances Fitzgerald receive Trinity European Laureate Award - Trinity Long Room Hub

Maria Leptin and Provost Linda Doyle

Maria Leptin

Laureate, 2026

President of the European Research Council.

→ Listen back to the event
→ Read coverage

Professor Maria Leptin receives Trinity European Laureate Award - Trinity Long Room Hub

Michael McGrath

Laureate, 2026

European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection. This award was presented in Brussels.→ Read coverage

EU Commissioner Michael McGrath receives Trinity European Laureate Award - Trinity College Dublin
EU Commissioner Michael McGrath receives award honouring ‘contribution to democracy’ - Irish Post