Charity and education leaders awarded MBEs
RECOGNITION: Jamie Lewis MBE
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
A charity leader and an education professional have both been awarded MBEs in the King’s Birthday Honours List.
Jamie Lewis, chief executive of HEY Smile Foundation, and Catherine Sykes, vice principal governance and compliance at Hull College, were both awarded MBEs in the honours list announced today.
Mr Lewis was honoured for outstanding services to communities across the region.
His journey into leadership has been shaped by his own lived experience of the care system, which he says continues to influence his work today.
“It’s incredibly humbling to receive this honour,” he said. “But this recognition isn’t just about me – it reflects the collective effort of so many individuals, organisations and communities working together across Yorkshire.”
Ms Sykes, who was honoured for outstanding services to education, has played a central role in Hull College's transformation from a college in national intervention to an institution recognised for excellence, with governance now considered one of its greatest strengths.
She also serves as a national leader of governance for the Department for Education, supporting boards and governance professionals across England. Ms Sykes is also a trustee of the HEY Smile Foundation.
She said: “Receiving news of this honour was completely unexpected and incredibly humbling. I am both deeply honoured and immensely proud to be recognised in this way.
CONTRIBUTION: Catherine Sykes MBE
“Education has the power to transform lives, and I have been fortunate throughout my career to work alongside people who are passionate about creating opportunities for others. While this honour bears my name, it reflects the collective efforts of so many people who have supported and inspired me along the way.
“From my colleagues at Hull College and across the further education sector to the communities and organisations I have had the privilege to serve, I am grateful for every opportunity to contribute. I remain passionate about championing excellence in governance, embracing innovation responsibly, and ensuring education continues to create opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive.”
Debra Gray CBE, chief executive and principal of Hull College, said: “Everyone at Hull College is absolutely delighted that Catherine has received this richly deserved honour. Catherine is an exceptional leader whose expertise, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to education have had a profound impact, not only on Hull College but on the wider further education sector nationally.
“Her leadership has been instrumental in strengthening governance at Hull College and supporting our transformation journey. Catherine consistently demonstrates the highest standards of integrity, innovation, and public service, and this recognition is a fitting tribute to her outstanding contribution to the education sector and her wider community.”
Mr Lewis has been a leading strategic voice within the region’s voluntary sector over many years. His leadership at the foundation has played a central role in strengthening community infrastructure, supporting grassroots groups and improving collaboration across the region.
He said: “My experiences have always driven me to make sure others have access to the opportunities and support they need. At its heart, this work is about people – helping communities feel empowered and able to thrive.”
Trish Dalby, chair of trustees at the HEY Smile Foundation, said: “Jamie’s recognition is both a celebration of his outstanding contribution and a moment of pride for the charity and the communities it serves.
“His leadership has strengthened the foundation, expanded its reach and impact, and shines a light on the incredible work taking place across local communities every day, as Smile remains firmly committed to collaboration, innovation and a stronger future for the voluntary sector.”