Martin Scorsese receives Trinity’s Philosophical Society’s Gold Medal
Posted on: 06 April 2017
Renowned film director, Martin Scorsese became an Honorary Patron of the University Philosophical Society (The Phil) in February. He delivered a talk to a full capacity student audience in the Public Theatre which was followed by a lively Q&A session chaired by Matthew Nuding, President of the University Philosophical Society.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Mr Scorsese said: “When I received the news that I had been selected as an Honorary Patron by the University Philosophical Society of Trinity College, I was both surprised and moved. Trinity College is one of the world’s greatest and most venerable institutions of learning, and the University Philosophical Society has welcomed an illustrious list of Honorary Patrons and former members. I accept the honour with gratitude.”
The film director was presented with the Gold Medal of Honorary Patronage by the President of The Phil. “This award is given to exceptional individuals who have excelled in their given fields. In this case, for Mr Scorsese’s outstanding contribution to film. In a career that spans over 50 years, his influence over the film industry cannot be overstated. He is without a doubt one of the most significant and influential filmmakers in cinematic history,” said Matthew.
In receiving the Gold Medal, Scorsese joins a distinguished list of University Philosophical Society Honorary Patrons including former Vice President Joe Biden, First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon, Professor Brian Cox, Al Pacino, Conan O’Brien, Tim Cook, Dame Helen Mirren and Whoopi Goldberg among many others.
Welcoming Martin Scorsese to Trinity, the Provost, Dr Patrick Prendergast said: “The creative arts are at the heart of Trinity and sharing his long career in film with our students will be inspirational for them. As alma mater to some of Mr Scorsese’s favourite writers such as Swift, Goldsmith and Beckett we hope Mr Scorsese will find his visit equally stimulating.”