University Professor receives MBE at Windsor Castle

Professor Sharon Arkell, Associate Dean for Strategic Health Partnerships in the Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing at the University, has received her Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) at a ceremony held at Windsor Castle on 13 January 2026.

Professor Arkell was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List in June 2025 for her outstanding services to higher education. The award acknowledges her long‑standing contributions to health education, strategic partnership development, and her leadership in improving outcomes for learners, professionals and communities across the sector.

Professor Arkell MBE said:

“It was a very proud moment for me and my family when I received my MBE from Princess Anne at Windsor Castle in January. It's not something that I ever thought I would receive and I'm very grateful to the person who nominated me and recognised my work achievements, none of which would have been possible without the support of the many people I have worked with over the years.”

Professor Arkell has built a distinguished 27‑year career in higher education, including 20 years with the University of Wolverhampton, where she has held several senior leadership roles, most recently serving as Dean of the Faculty of Education, Health & Wellbeing. Her career began in the NHS as a registered nurse, and her lived experience as a first‑generation university student and mature learner has shaped her long‑standing commitment to widening access to education.

Throughout her tenure, Professor Arkell has led transformational initiatives that have expanded the University’s healthcare education portfolio, developed new programmes, and increased student numbers. Her work has been pivotal in creating clear pathways into healthcare careers for students from disadvantaged and underrepresented communities across the West Midlands, helping to build a more representative regional health workforce.

She has also made a significant national impact through her contribution to healthcare policy and regulation, including shaping the University’s response during the COVID‑19 pandemic and contributing to national policy groups focused on healthcare education. Her influence extends beyond the University through her work with the Council of Deans of Health and her leadership in regulatory policy.