IDI Awards Handbook 2011 - Institute of Designers in Ireland

WELCOMING
MICHAEL D.
HIGGINS’
PATRONAGE
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The IDI is delighted to welcome
President Michael D. Higgins
as a sole patron of the Institute.
We received confirmation of his
acceptance of our invitation in
January of this year.
Since the foundation of the Institute of Designers
in Ireland in 1972, patronage of the Institute was
established at the highest state level, thus giving
support and recognition to a relatively young
and developing design profession and to the
professional body representing it. The IDI has
continued to enjoy support from each President
of Ireland, with Dr Patrick J. Hillery at the opening
ceremony of the Graduate Designer Awards in
1986 and President Mary Robinson endorsing the
IDI Conference “The Sense of Place” in Killarney
in 1997, President Mary McAleese became the
sole patron of the Institute of Designers for her
term of office and bestowed Fellowships on
nominated members during the Past President’s
meeting for the 35th Anniversary of the IDI in
2006 in Farmleigh.
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In May 2011, the IDI was represented by Carol
Coffey and John Walsh at a special event in
the Conference Centre for Her Majesty Queen
Elizabeth II at the behest of President McAleese.
The IDI now welcomes the Patronage of President
Michael D. Higgins and looks forward to a continuing
acknowledgement and appreciation of the valuable
work done by the IDI in promoting the highest
standards in all aspects of design. As we celebrate
our 40th year, we are particularly honoured to have
President Higgins’ patronage given his record
in showcasing, canvassing and promoting of the
creative sector in Ireland.
John Walsh
IDI President Elect 2011