The broadcast journalist Charlie Bird has confirmed that he will not be using his new honorary title of Doctor of Laws in his work with RTÉ.
He was among 19 well-known personalities conferred with honorary degrees in Law, Science and Celtic Studies at University College Dublin (UCD) yesterday, marking the start of the celebrations of the college's 150th anniversary.
Speaking at the ceremony, he said he considered it a "great honour" to have received the award. But describing himself as "just a working journalist", he indicated he would not be called Dr Charlie Bird in the future.
Among those who received honorary degrees were philanthropist and businessman Mr Lochlainn Quinn, entertainer Michael Flatley, former footballer, Mr Kevin Moran, and children's charity founder Ms Christina Noble.
Other recipients included Fr John Dardis, provincial of the Jesuit Order in Ireland, Mr David Byrne, outgoing European Commissioner, and former US Congressman Mr Bruce Morrison.
According to UCD, they were chosen because their achievements reflect the "unequalled influence that UCD has had on the economic, social, political, scientific, literary, academic and legal development of Ireland."
But students at the college also used the opportunity to highlight their concerns about the future of education here, with one group calling itself "Global Action" staging an outdoor "reclaim the campus" party to coincide with the event.
Speaking to The Irish Times, Mr Flatley, who is currently completing his autobiography, said it was "fantastic" to have received the award.
"It was something I was not expecting, which makes it an even greater honour," he said. "It's fantastic. It's just great that it is here at UCD because it's an Irish university. I'm very proud to be here."
Ms Noble, who flew in from Vietnam to receive her award and film a music video with the Irish rugby team in aid
of her charity, the Children's Foundation, said she never expected the honour.
"I think the very important thing it is saying to the youth out there is that whatever the circumstances you are born into, it doesn't mean you can't move on," she said.
"It's about you being strong enough and tough enough in the positive areas of your life."
Former footballer Kevin Moran, who completed a bachelor degree in commerce at UCD in 1976, said he believed the award was a recognition of what he had done during his career to date.
"I think the people here today will always say it is nice to have things they've done in life recognised," he said. "It is a tremendous honour. When I got the call I was so surprised."