Jennifer Rubin (Politics BA 1990) has been awarded a CBE for her services to science and analysis. She built a distinguished career in research and policy. Following her studies at Loughborough, her work has focused on migration, integration, intolerance, community justice, and links between public health and policy. Jennifer served as Chief Scientific Adviser at the Home Office from 2021 to 2025, leading evidence-based policy and research strategy. Prior to this, she was Executive Chair of the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and held senior roles at RAND Europe and King’s College London, directing influential work on social policy and public safety.
Paul Mizen (Economics PhD 1992) has been recognised with an OBE for his services to economics and public policy. Paul is Deputy Dean, Vice Dean for Research and Professor of Economics at King’s College Business School. His work focuses on economic statistics to support monetary and fiscal policy, corporate investment, and productivity. He is principal investigator and co-founder of the ESRC Decision Maker Panel - Bank of England and serves on the leadership teams of the Economic Statistics Centre of Excellence and The Productivity Institute. Paul has published seven books and over 140 research papers and previously held senior academic roles at the University of Nottingham and visiting positions at Princeton, the European University Institute and the University of Vienna. He completed his PhD in Economics at Loughborough University in 1992.
Paula Radcliffe MBE on Experts in Sport Podcast
For her services to sport, Paula Radcliffe MBE (Modern European Studies BA 1996) was awarded an OBE. She famously won the London Marathon three times and held the women’s marathon world record of 2:15:25 for sixteen years after setting it in 2003. Paula also claimed victories at the New York Marathon (2004, 2007, 2008) and the Chicago Marathon in 2002 and won marathon gold at the 2005 World Championships. A four-time Olympian, she holds British records for 3,000m, 5,000m and 10,000m. More recently, she achieved Six Star Finisher status, completing six World Marathon Majors. Since retiring, Paula has become a BBC athletics commentator and is actively involved in charity work, particularly with Children with Cancer UK. You can listen to an interview with Paula on the Experts in Sport podcast.
Victoria Wells (Sports Science with Management BA 2003), Assistant Director of Children and Young People at the Youth Sport Trust, has been awarded an OBE in the King’s Honours List for her outstanding services to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in shaping national programmes that champion inclusive sport and ensure that young people with special needs and disabilities have meaningful opportunities to participate and thrive. Her leadership and long‑standing commitment to equity in physical education have had a transformative impact on schools and communities across the UK.
For his contribution to social enterprise and community development in Birmingham, Laurence Beard (Civil Engineering B.Sc 1987) has been awarded an MBE. As former Chief Executive of Jericho, he led initiatives that removed barriers to employment and created opportunities for those most in need. His work has strengthened communities across the region and reflects a deep commitment to supporting individuals facing significant challenges.
Recognised for his exceptional service to the community in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, the Reverend Prebendary Dr Brian Leathard (History Ph.D 1991) has been honoured with an MBE for his longstanding commitment to supporting others. Appointed a Prebendary of St Paul’s Cathedral in 2005 and retiring this year as Rector of St Luke’s and Christ Church, Chelsea, he has dedicated his career to strengthening community life and championing those most in need. He has chaired the charity Glass Door, which operates London’s largest emergency winter night shelters and provides vital support to people experiencing homelessness.
England rugby international Megan Jones has been recognised with an MBE for services to Rugby Union. A standout figure in the women’s game, Megan has represented England across both Sevens and 15s, contributing to major international successes and helping to elevate the profile of women’s rugby on the global stage. Her commitment to excellence, leadership on and off the field, and impact as a role model for young athletes reflect the values and ambition of the Loughborough community.
Sarah Massey
Sarah Massey (Business School Research M.Phil.1994), Managing Director of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, has been awarded an MBE for services to Women’s Rugby Union. A leading figure in the development and professionalisation of the women’s game, she has played a central role in shaping the vision and delivery of the upcoming World Cup, helping to drive growth, visibility and opportunity across the sport.
For his exceptional charitable service, an MBE has been awarded to Alex Gibson BEM (Chemistry with Analytical Chemistry B.Sc 1999) in recognition of the remarkable impact he has made supporting those affected by Motor Neurone Disease and for charitable service. Living with the condition himself, Alex has shown extraordinary determination, raising over £170,000 for a national charity he founded to provide vital assistance to individuals with Motor Neurone Disease and their families.
Sadia Kabeya, England rugby star and Loughborough Lightning player has been awarded an MBE for her services to Rugby Union Football. She is listed on the honours alongside her Lightning teammate Helena Rowland, who has also beeawarded an MBE for her contribution to the sport. Their achievements highlight the talent and dedication within the Lightning squad and reflect the strength of Loughborough’s sporting community. Sadia was also named Player of the Match in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
Sarina Wiegman holding her honorary degree in 2024 at Loughborough University outside Hazlerigg Building
Finally, with an Honorary Damehood, Honorary Graduate Sarina Wiegman has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to football and her inspirational leadership on the international stage. She was recently named Coach of the Year at the Sports Personality of the Year 2025 awards. As head coach of the England women’s national team, she has guided the Lionesses to remarkable success, including their historic victory at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. Her commitment to excellence, player development and the growth of women’s sport continues to have a transformative impact both in the UK and globally.
Congratulations to all alumni recognised in the New Year Honours.
If you’ve been named in the Honours list or have other achievements to celebrate, we’d love to hear from you, please get in touch and share your news.