I am very proud to see members of the King’s community recognised for their achievements, both within the university and beyond. These honours reflect the breadth of talent, commitment and impact across King’s – from advancing knowledge to excelling on the football pitch. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and this recognition is a fitting celebration of the many ways they make a difference.
Professor Shitij Kapur, Vice-Chancellor & President of King's College London
15 June 2026
King's staff member and student recognised in 2026 Birthday Honours
William Luckhurst and Michelle Agyemang have been recognised in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours list for significant contributions to their communities, going above and beyond in delivering positive change to benefit others.
William Luckhurst
William Luckhurst, Senior Technical Manager (Projects) of the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical and Engineering Sciences, has been awarded a British Empire Medal for services to Scanning Electron Microscopy.
Bill is a much-beloved figure in King’s, having worked in the university for over 40 years, He was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from King’s in 2017 and the Technician of the Year from the Institute of Physics in 2023. Bill provides technical management expertise and supports vital research work in the faculty, and intends to fully retire in 2029 at King's bicentenary when he will also have completed 50 years of working in King's.
"I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition and have been reflecting on the journey that has brought me to this point. King's, NMES and Physics have been a constant source of support throughout my career, providing opportunities that have enabled me to learn, grow and flourish. I am profoundly grateful for this support, and for the opportunity to give back to the communities that have meant so much to me over the years.", said William Luckhurst.
Michelle Agyemang
Michelle Agyemang, a professional footballer and a student of Business Management at King’s, has been awarded an MBE for services to Association Football. At 20 years old, Michelle is the youngest recipient and is recognised alongside her Euro 2025 Lionesses teammates Jess Carter, Hannah Hampton, Lauren James, Chloe Kelly and Alessia Russo.
Michelle is a footballer for Women’s Super League club Arsenal and has also recently received King’s Future Alumni Award. She is also part of King’s Sport & Wellness Performance Athletes Programme.
“I’m incredibly honoured and grateful to receive this recognition. Football has been a huge part of my life and I’m fortunate to do something I genuinely love. I’m thankful to God, my family, friends, coaches, teammates and everyone who has supported me along the way.“, said Michelle Agyemang.
The King’s Birthday Honours List recognise community change-makers across the country, awarding 1182 recipients this year.