A UNIVERSITY of Reading leader who has transformed opportunities for technicians across higher education has received her royal honour in a ceremony at Windsor Castle.
Dr Karen Henderson, Director of Research and Innovation at the University, was presented with the official honour by HRH The Princess Royal on February 17.
She was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours List for services to Higher Education.
The honour recognises Dr Henderson’s exceptional leadership in establishing benchmark professional standards and creating access to opportunities within higher education’s technical community.
Under her leadership, the University of Reading was awarded Employer Champion status by the Science Council.
Dr Henderson also played a pivotal role in developing a new Higher Education Technician Apprenticeship Standard as part of a Trailblazer Group, increasing both the number and diversity of technical apprenticeships.
She also co-chaired the University’s first Silver Athena Swan Award, which recognises and promotes gender equality in higher education and research.
In addition, she contributed to a new national Athena Swan framework specifically for Professional, Technical and Operational (PTO) staff, with Reading going on to become the first PTO team in the UK to achieve an Athena Swan Silver Award.
Dr Henderson continues to serve as co-chair of the London and South East England Technician Commitment Leads Network.
Following the investiture ceremony, Dr Henderson said: “It was a truly special day and an experience I will never forget.
“I have been fortunate to work with a wide range of staff and students at the University that have challenged, supported and motivated me throughout my career, particularly those in Technical Services.
“I dedicate this MBE to these people. It is a recognition of their talent, dedication and the difference they make every day, often behind the scenes, to the staff and student experience.”
