Alumni recognised by Her Majesty in the Birthday Honours list

Jane Atkinson CBE in a hard hat.

Five Loughborough alumni have been awarded Queen’s Honours in the Birthday list, published in early October.

For services to Chemical Engineering, alumna Jane Atkinson (BEng Chemical Engineering 1994) becomes a CBE. Jane (pictured above) is the Engineering & Automation Executive at Bilfinger UK and has previously worked for Cape Specialist Services, Sembcorp Utilities UK, and British Steel. Jane is a Chartered Chemical Engineer, a Fellow and Trustee of the Institute of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) and Chair of their UK Board. In addition, she is a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

Joining Jane on the list is alumnus Michael Whittingham (PGCE 1978), honoured with an OBE for services to Sport. He is a former GB international 400m hurdler and has held roles with various non-governmental bodies. He is the current Director of High Performance at sportscotland institute of sport. He was also involved in the London 2012 Legacy Board.

Also awarded an OBE is alumna Caroline Hoddinott (BA English 1985), for services to Education. A school Headteacher, she has previously been awarded “Headteacher of the Year in a Secondary School” in the Pearson National Teaching Awards. She has led her school through two “Outstanding” Ofsted inspections during her eight years as a Headteacher and she contributes to various educational boards and other organisations outside of her school role.

For services to British Business in New Zealand, alumnus Philip Wood (BSc Banking and Finance 1980) is awarded an OBE. Philip is the President and Executive Director of British New Zealand Business Association, an organisation which ensures bilateral trade, investment and goodwill between New Zealand and Britain. He has been President of the organisation for 15 years, and in his role works with government officials and businesses from the two countries.

Recognised for services to Sport with an MBE is alumna Alison Oliver (BSc Geography and Physical Education 1992 and PGCE 1993). Alison (pictured below) is the Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Sport Trust (YST), a non-governmental organisation. She has been the CEO since 2015 and has worked for the organisation for 15 years. Alongside her role with YST, where she has led on significant inclusive sport projects for young people around the country, she is also a trustee of several charities and a board member of the Sport for Development Coalition.

Alison Oliver MBE.

Congratulations to our Honours recipients.

Get in touch if you have a story to share.