From Campus Champion to National Hero: Sunderland professor officially awarded MBE
Let’s give three very big, loud and royal cheers for the University of Sunderland’s Professor Lynne McKenna, who has just been officially awarded an MBE for her services to education!
During an investiture ceremony at the one-and-only Windsor Castle on 6 February, Professor McKenna was presented with her award by the Princess Anne.
Yes, a crowning glory that’s totally, totally deserved… and a huge win for the North East!
An advocate for raising the status of the teaching profession
Professor McKenna, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Society, said: “It was such an honour to be recognised in King Charles’ first birthday honours list which was announced in June 2023.
“To accept this award from Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, was such a wonderful experience and a great privilege. It is a day my family will remember for many years to come.
“To have the opportunity to talk to Princess Anne about our University, and my work, was indeed an honour.
“Princess Anne asked me about my involvement in developing iQTS (International Qualified Teacher Status) for the Department for Education (DfE) . She was very interested in the development of this flagship qualification at a time when we are experiencing a global teacher recruitment and retention crisis. I was very impressed that she was aware of my work.
“I am delighted to receive this award which recognises my work in education, particularly in teacher training and education but also the University’s commitment to ensuring that high quality teacher training and education for the north-east, nationally and internationally is recognised.”
A meaningful journey from the beginning
Professor McKenna joined the University in 2015 as Head of the School of Education, and in 2018 was appointed as Dean of the Faculty of Education and Society.
Lynne is a Professor of Education, and a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. If that wasn’t enough, she is also a key member of several organisations, including:
- The MillionPlus Deans of Education Network
- The All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Teaching Profession
- The University Council for the Education of Teachers
- The Chartered College of Teaching
- #WomenEd
- And, of course, Schools North East!
Professor McKenna is a strong advocate for raising the status of the teaching profession, as demonstrated by her involvement in organisations with a mission to increase the need for quality initial teacher education and training, and providing ongoing support for serving teachers.
In 2020 she was named as a leader in the field of innovation for #NorthInnovationWomen, a list that aims to highlight and recognise the excellence of female innovators working right across the North of England, as well as presenting a showcase of role models to women and girls thinking of working in – or studying – the many sectors where innovation is key.
In a career spanning three decades, Professor McKenna has played a crucial part in shaping the future of teacher training in the UK and internationally, transforming thousands of lives and becoming a leading figure in the education system.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “The whole team is truly delighted for Professor Lynne McKenna. Being awarded an MBE is an incredible achievement no matter what it’s for, but for services to education? That deserves an even louder round of applause, if you ask us!
“People like Lynne make the sector a much better place to be, whether as a colleague or pupil, and the North East is very lucky to have her, as is Schools North East, which Lynne has supported in so many different ways over the years. Many congratulations again!”
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