Dolores Keane was the recipient of the 2001 Exceptional Celtic Woman Award. Dolores Keane is one of Ireland's foremost Traditional Irish singers and a an ambassador throughout the world for all that is good in Irish culture, particularly its music.

Due to the tragic and unforeseen circumstances of September 11th. 2001 Dolores was unable to travel to the Fourth Annual CWI Conference in Milwaukee to receive her award. Mary Mullins, who had travelled from Galway, accepted the award on her behalf. Having carried the award, a beautiful piece of Connemara Crystal, across the Atlantic for the presentation, Mary carried the same piece half-way around the world again!

As CWI President Jean Bills was in Ireland for the Saint Patrick's Day Celebrations it was arranged to coincide the award presentation with her visit. Dolores Keane received her award on Thursday night, March 21st in Devitt's Pub, 78 Lower Camden Street. Previous CWI award winner, Irish historical writer Ms Morgan Llewelyn, and Irish Board member, Mary Munnelly MD of Connemara Crystal, Moycullen, were also in attendance and seen in the photo presenting Dolores with her awards. Following the award ceremony there was a traditional Irish 'hooley' with music and song led by Martin Black of the famous Black Family. What a night!!