In tribute to Prof Jackie McCoy MBE

All of us at Belfast International Arts Festival were saddened to learn of the passing of our former chairperson Professor Jackie McCoy MBE.

Fiona Kane MBE, Chair, of Belfast International Arts Festival said:

“It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of our much-loved former Chair, Professor Jackie McCoy MBE.

Jackie was a remarkable leader, generous mentor and passionate advocate for the arts. She gave so much of her time, wisdom and energy to Belfast International Arts Festival, helping to shape and strengthen the organisation through her vision, commitment and belief in the transformative power of culture.

Beyond her many professional achievements, Jackie will be remembered for her energy, warmth and gift for bringing people together. She cared deeply about the Festival and its people, and her influence is still felt within the organisation.

On behalf of the Board, staff and wider Festival family, I extend our deepest sympathies to Jackie’s family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.”

Richard Wakely, the Festival’s former Artistic Director and CEO, who worked closely with Jackie during her tenure as Chair, paid this tribute:

“Jackie was the first Chairperson of Belfast International Arts Festival, which emerged as an independent entity from the Belfast Festival at Queen’s in 2015. Her wisdom, generosity and appreciation of the importance of establishing the new festival as a platform for Northern Ireland to be a key member of a wider global community was vital in those early days. Whilst all of us at Belfast International Arts Festival are heartbroken at her passing, we are thankful for her enlightened leadership and friendship during her 8 year tenure as Chair.”