Four Somervillians were recognized in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

Angela McLean (Maths 1979) was awarded a DBE for services to Mathematical Biology and scientific advice for government.

Professor McLean is interested in how mathematical models can help our understanding of the evolution and spread of infectious agents. She has chaired the lead expert group for a
government project on reducing the risk of future disasters.

She said: “I am delighted to receive this honour and to see the two topics of mathematical biology and the use of science in government recognised in this way.”

Angela McLean

 

Dr Margaret Casely-Hayford (Law, 1980) was awarded a CBE for charitable services in the UK and abroad.

Dr Casely-Hayford was appointed chair of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre this year after having served as chair of the development charity ActionAid UK for four years.

She said: “I’m delighted to have been included on the first honours list to include over 50% female nominees, particularly in this year when we are celebrating the improvement of female suffrage.”

Carole Hillenbrand (DPhil 1968) was awarded a CBE for services to the Understanding of Islamic History.

Professor Hillenbrand is professorial fellow in Islamic History at St Andrews and the author of Islam: A New Historical Introduction.

Carole Hillenbrand

Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, an honorary fellow, was made a Companion of Honour for services to music.

Jan Royall, Principal, said: “I am delighted that this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours recognized the achievements of these talented Somervillians, who are prospering in such
different walks of life and making a vital contribution. My congratulations to them all.

Further reading?

Somerville’s New Chapel Director on Music and Multi-Faith Community

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19 October 2026
Somerville’s New Chapel Director on Music and Multi-Faith Community

Afua Kyei: Igniting Change

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15 October 2026
Afua Kyei: Igniting Change

Somerville and the Duleep Singh Sisters

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15 October 2026
Somerville and the Duleep Singh Sisters