Professor Steve West, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) has been awarded a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2023.
Professor Sir Steven West is one of the longest serving UK Vice-Chancellors and is president of Universities UK. He has been recognised for his major contributions to education, health, and business, underpinned by a profound commitment to transforming lives.
He said: “I am absolutely delighted and proud to receive this honour, which also reflects the amazing work we are leading at UWE Bristol.
“I have been at the university in a senior leadership position for over 27 years and president of Universities UK since 2021. I feel very privileged to have worked with brilliantly talented students, colleagues, collaborators, and boards throughout my career. Together we have achieved transformational change in education, health and business. Together we have been bold enough to face the really difficult issues, to engage and to take action to create positive change.
“Universities play a critical role in shaping local decisions, improving lives in our communities, and boosting the economy and cultural vibrancy across our country. I am hugely proud that through our education, research and enterprise, we create a huge diversity of jobs and opportunities, positively impact areas of local deprivation, transform local services and empower people from all backgrounds to fulfil their potential.
“I am deeply touched to receive this honour and would like to thank everyone for their support, guidance and influence over the many years, in particular my family and colleagues.”