Father Cyril Barrett entered the Jesuit novitiate in 1935 and graduated with first class honours in 1940 from University College, Dublin. He was ordained in 1949 and came to Hong Kong in 1951. After initial language training, he began his long association with Wah Yan College, first as a teacher and then as Principal. He was Warden of Ricci Hall from 1962 to 1969, which was rebuilt and greatly enlarged during his wardenship.
He has been Chairman of the Grants School Council, a member of the Board of Education and of the Board of Trustees of the United College of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and a member of the University Court.
In recognition of his contribution to education in Hong Kong, the University has resolved to confer upon him the degree of Doctor of Social Sciences honoris causa.
