Sheila Aynsley Smith MBE!

We are delighted to report that Sheila Aynsley Smith has been awarded an MBE for services to higher education in the New Years Honours list.

Sheila was a very active and enthusiastic AUA member for many years until her retirement from Manchester Met in August 2007. She served on AUA’s Executive Committee, Perspectives editorial board and Corporate Planning Forum steering group. She acted as a mentor to participants undertaking the PG Cert and was a regular speaker at the annual conference and other events.

Sheila has had a long career in education, starting in the early 1970s. She held various positions and was appointed as a Head of Student Services at MMU in 1995. She was an active member of AMOSSHE and a member of its Executive.

Sheila is highly respected in the higher education field and well known for her work, in particular with regard to disabled students, issues relating to student retention and learning support, and to enhancing the student experience.

We are very pleased that Sheila has received appropriate recognition for her work and send her our warmest congratulations.  The photo shows Sheila's investiture at Buckingham Palace on 1 May.

Comments

[Sheila Aynsley Smith]

Dear Caroline,

I've only just read your article and I should like to thank you for your most kind words. I should also like to add that it is one of the most accurate and succinct pen portraits, for which I am most grateful.

I was most overwhelmed and indeed embarassed to receive such an accolade. You and I both know many individuals who have contributed far more than I have; indeed many of them have both encouraged my endeavours and unconsciously been mentors.

I receive the award on 1 May; this is fast approaching and the whole family is looking forward to it! I have just completed a course of chemotherapy which has effectively lasted since last August and I am hoping for a decent break before any further treatment. I have fallen gently into a retirement routine - which involves frequent UK breaksand ome European - as well as trying to get back into a gym routine. I am excited about taking on a new school governorship and keeping busy - alhough sometimes frustrated by not having quite my former energy levels!

I always enjoyed my association with AUA and have retianed many good friends. I wish the organisation every continuing success.

With every best wish

Sheila