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The 2026 New Year Honours list has recognized five distinguished individuals associated with Queen Mary University of London, highlighting the significant impact of its alumni and staff across diverse fields. These honours celebrate outstanding contributions to dentistry, international relations, healthcare, geoscience, and the arts.
Recognizing Excellence Across Disciplines
The prestigious list, published by the Cabinet Office, acknowledges individuals who have made exceptional contributions to society. For Queen Mary, this recognition underscores the university’s commitment to fostering leaders and innovators who drive progress globally. The recipients include alumni who have excelled in their professional careers and an honorary fellow who has made a mark in the cultural sector.
Professor Christopher Tredwin: MBE for Services to General Dental Practice
Professor Christopher (Chris) Tredwin, a 1996 graduate in Dental Surgery, was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). As Dean and Institute Director for the Institute of Dentistry at Queen Mary, and an Honorary Consultant in Restorative Dentistry at Barts Health NHS Trust, Professor Tredwin has been a driving force in dental education and patient care. His work has been particularly impactful in East London, where he spearheaded the establishment of two dental training clinics. These clinics not only provide invaluable hands-on experience for students but also address critical gaps in dental care access for local communities. The success of one such clinic was highlighted when it was chosen as the location for the launch of the new NHS 10 Year Health Plan for England.
Martin Uden: OBE for Services to UK/Korea Relations and Veterans
Martin Uden, who graduated in Law in 1976, received an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his dedicated service to British veterans of the Korean War and to UK/Korea relations. A former British Ambassador to South Korea, Martin has been a tireless advocate for remembering the sacrifices made during the Korean War. He has authored biographies and located photographs of the 1,078 British servicemen who died in the conflict. Now serving as Queen Mary’s International Partnerships Advisor, Martin continues to champion the university’s global strengths, particularly its multicultural essence and social mission.
Dr Alexander Rhys: OBE for Services to Healthcare and the LGBTQ+ Community
Dr Alexander Rhys, who earned his PhD in molecular oncology from Queen Mary’s Barts Cancer Institute, was honoured with an OBE. Dr Rhys is the CEO of the Infection Prevention Society and the founder of It Gets Better UK, a charity that has reached over 2.5 million LGBTQ+ young people. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was instrumental in the regulatory education arrangements that enabled 43,000 student nurses to be deployed across the UK. His work seamlessly blends scientific rigour with compassionate advocacy for vulnerable communities.
Professor Frances Wall: OBE for Services to Geoscience
Professor Frances Wall, a 1984 graduate in geochemistry, was appointed an OBE for her services to geoscience and sustainable resource development. Now a Professor of Applied Mineralogy at the Camborne School of Mines, University of Exeter, Professor Wall is a globally recognized leader in her field. She was named one of the 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining in 2016 and was awarded the William Smith Medal by the Geological Society of London in 2019 for her contributions to applied and economic geology.
Dr Tristram Hunt: Knighthood for Services to Museums
Dr Tristram Hunt, a former lecturer in Modern History at Queen Mary (2001-2010) and an Honorary Fellow, was knighted for his services to museums. As the Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum since 2017, Dr Hunt has played a pivotal role in shaping one of the UK’s most celebrated cultural institutions. His career also includes serving as a Labour MP and as Shadow Secretary of State for Education.
A Legacy of Impact
Professor Colin Bailey CBE, President and Principal of Queen Mary, extended his congratulations, stating that the honours reflect the “traits of leadership, research quality and education excellence” that define the university and its global alumni community. The achievements of these individuals demonstrate the profound and positive impact that a Queen Mary education can have, not only on the UK but on a global scale.
