Shona McCarthy - Laureation
In the name and on behalf of the Senate, I have the privilege to present for the honorary degree of Doctor of the University, Honoris Causa, Shona McCarthy.
The former Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Fringe Society, Shona McCarthy is a true visionary, whose leadership has profoundly shaped the cultural landscape of our city, and indeed, far beyond.
Shona's time at the helm of the Edinburgh Fringe Society was defined by her indefatigable dedication to artistic expression, to making sure everyone felt welcome at the Fringe, and to capitalising on the sheer, transformative power of creativity. For nine years, she navigated the exhilarating chaos and boundless energy of the Fringe. She used her time at the helm to tirelessly champion emerging artists, ensuring that the festival continues to be a vital launchpad for new talent. She forged international collaborations, extending the Fringe's global appeal, and worked continually to make this unique festival a vibrant and accessible platform for performers from every walk of life – from established names to those taking their very first steps onto the world stage.
Under her leadership, the Fringe didn't just weather challenges - including significant economic shifts, the pandemic and the ever-complex logistics of such a vast event - it truly flourished. She was a driving force behind initiatives that genuinely broadened access for both artists and audiences – whether through targeted bursaries for performers, promoting relaxed performances for people who may find a traditional theatre overwhelming, or efforts to make venues more accessible to all.
Her strategic foresight and passionate advocacy have expanded the Fringe's reach and deepened its impact on Edinburgh's identity as a global cultural capital. During her tenure, the festival solidified its position as the world's largest celebration of arts and culture, drawing millions of visitors to our city each August and injecting vital energy into our creative sector and broader economy. She made certain that the very spirit of the Fringe has remained vibrantly alive and thriving – a festival where anything can happen, and often does, with the joy of discovery around every corner.
But Shona's impact extends well beyond her remarkable work with the Edinburgh Fringe. She boasts a truly distinguished career, consistently championing and developing arts and culture. From 2011 to 2014, she served as Chief Executive of the Culture Company where, in 2013 she brilliantly led Derry-Londonderry's transformative year as the inaugural UK City of Culture, delivering a world-class, citywide cultural programme. Before that, she held the role of Director of the British Council Northern Ireland, overseeing international programmes spanning arts, education, and cultural relations. She also headed up Imagine Belfast, driving Belfast's bid to be European Capital of Culture.
Shona’s deep connection to film is exemplified in her leadership as Chief Executive of Cinemagic Film Festival for young people in Belfast, as Director of the Foyle Film Festival in Derry, and as Head of Exhibition at the Northern Ireland Film Council. Shona's commitment to the arts is highlighted by her past roles as Chair of Walk the Plank and Belfast’s Oh Yeah Music Centre, and in her work as an independent arts consultant. Her immense contributions haven't gone unnoticed; a cultural leadership award from Nesta, the UK's innovation agency for social good, enabled her to work in India, and an Eisenhower Fellowship from the USA in 2014 made her part of a truly inspiring global network of leaders.
Shona McCarthy embodies the values of Queen Margaret University. Her work exemplifies social responsibility, seen in her relentless drive for inclusivity and access at the Fringe, ensuring the arts are for everyone, not just a privileged few. Her belief in the power of the arts to enrich lives and foster community is evident across her entire career, from transforming Derry into a City of Culture to nurturing young talent through film festivals. She consistently demonstrates the courage needed to lead with vision and integrity, taking on challenging and transformative roles that have had a tangible, positive impact on both cultural life and economic wellbeing across the UK and internationally. Her work has brought joy and inspiration to millions and contributed significantly to the economic and social fabric of our communities, aligning with QMU's mission to make a positive difference in society.
Today, as our graduands embark on their own journeys of impact and innovation, Shona McCarthy stands as a truly inspiring example of what can be achieved through passion, dedication, and a profound understanding of the power of human creativity. Her leadership, both at the Edinburgh Fringe Society and throughout her career, has shaped the careers of countless artists and enriched the lives of audiences worldwide.
Chancellor, in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the arts, her visionary leadership, and her profound impact on the cultural landscape, I have much pleasure in inviting you to confer upon Shona McCarthy, the Honorary Degree of Doctor of the University.
