A number of distinguished individuals from across Leicester and Leicestershire have been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours 2026, celebrating outstanding contributions to medicine, public service, education and the wider community.
Professor Nishan Canagarajah, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leicester, has been knighted for services to higher education. Professor Canagarajah has championed inclusion and academic excellence, helping to broaden access and opportunities for students in Leicester and beyond. His leadership has been credited with enhancing the university’s research profile and deepening its community engagement.
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Policing Service Recognised
Rob Nixon, former Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police and former lead for criminal justice at the National Police Chiefs’ Council, has been appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to policing and criminal justice. His 32-year career in law enforcement included transformative leadership within Leicestershire and nationally.
Academic Honoured for Services to Research
Another OBE in the honours list was awarded to Professor Piers Mizen, a senior academic based in Loughborough, Leicestershire. Professor Mizen was recognised for his services to economic research and public policy, reflecting contributions that span academia and practical work on issues affecting regional and national economic development.
Jon Ashworth, former Member of Parliament for Leicester South, has also been honoured with a CBE in recognition of his dedicated public service.
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These local honours complement the 1,157 awards across the UK recognising people from all walks of life for their achievements and service to the community in 2026.
