AN ‘influential and inspirational’ Widnes woman has been made an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours list.
Professor Janet Lord has been made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for services to education.
This is through her work as deputy pro-vice chancellor at Manchester Metropolitan University and an independent chair in a priority area.
Working in the faculty of health and education, she holds firm beliefs about the importance of education and health being the cornerstones of a civilised society.
After starting her career in finance and consultancy, Janet worked as a teacher for many years, specialising in the social sciences.
She has dedicated more than 35 years to education, with her work spanning both professional and voluntary roles.
Her writing and research concern digital pedagogies, educational disadvantage, teacher identity and agency, and communities of practice.
In 2022, she was invited by the Department for Education to serve as independent chair for the Halton Priority Education Investment Area, helping to improve outcomes for disadvantaged children and young people.
Her leadership roles include Independent Chair of the Brilliant Futures Fund in Barrow, supporting a £5million programme to enhance education in the region.
On the news, Professor Lord said: “Receiving this OBE is an honour.
“My work is driven by a firm belief that education is the cornerstone of society – when we get it right, it can transform life chances.
“Too many children are growing up facing significant disadvantage, and I am committed to improving outcomes for them.
“By training and supporting teachers effectively, we can shape generations of young people and help them to fulfil their potential. It means a great deal to have this work recognised.”
Professor Malcolm Press, vice-chancellor at Manchester Metropolitan University, added: “Many congratulations to Professor Lord on her hugely deserved honour.
“Through her commitment to education and improving the lives of children and young people, Professor Lord has had a hugely positive impact on communities, providing firm foundations for children to achieve their full potential.
“She is an influential and inspirational leader who exemplifies the impact Manchester Met strives to make in society.”
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