The University of Bath is proud to celebrate the achievements of its alumni following recognition in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours, with graduates honoured for their outstanding contributions to public service, community sport and national life.
Among those recognised are Christine Gibbons MBE (BPharm Pharmacy 1978) and Mark Byers CBE (PGCE Earth Science 1996), whose careers exemplify the University’s commitment to impact, leadership and service.
Christine Gibbons MBE
Christine Gibbons, a University of Bath pharmacy graduate and Trustee of the Students’ Union, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to community sport and fitness.
Christine has built a distinguished career across healthcare and leadership, including serving as Chief Pharmacist at a London teaching hospital and holding senior executive roles as both a CEO and director. Alongside her professional achievements, she has remained deeply committed to widening access to sport and physical activity.
Her current portfolio of voluntary roles reflects this dedication, including Trusteeships with organisations promote inclusive participation in physical activity across communities:
- Active Sussex
- Geraint Thomas Cycling Trust
- parkrun Global
Christine joined the Bath Students’ Union Board of Trustees in 2024, having previously served on the University’s Council. She is widely recognised within the University community as a passionate advocate for the role of sport in supporting student wellbeing and belonging.
Christine said:
“It was a real privilege to receive this honour, and I dedicate it to the incredible volunteers who give their time to community sport – particularly those involved in parkrun, both here in the UK and around the world.
“Since retiring, I have built a portfolio of trustee roles that reflect my long-standing commitment to public health and to the vital role that sport and physical activity play in supporting healthy lives. Through this work, I have sought to reduce barriers to participation, as I firmly believe that everyone should have access to opportunities to be active, no matter where they live.
“My time at the University of Bath played an important role in shaping my career, and I have been proud to stay connected as an alumna, former Council member and now as a Trustee of Bath Students’ Union. It is a community I continue to champion, and one I am delighted to support through initiatives such as scholarships for students.”
Students’ Union President Benji Orford Thompson said that the award is “richly deserved recognition” of Christine’s tireless commitment to sport and student life.
Mark Byers CBE
Bath alumnus Mark Byers has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his outstanding contribution to improving policing and security in the UK.
Mark is currently Chief Operating Officer at His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), where he has played a key leadership role since joining the organisation in 2020.
With over 25 years of experience in policing and security organisations, Mark has led major work across HR, operational support, capability development and contingency planning. Prior to HMICFRS, he worked in the Northern Ireland Office, where he was involved in planning for complex, high-profile national events, including preparations related to Brexit.
His honour also reflects his commitment beyond his professional career, particularly his voluntary work in grassroots and community rugby across the East Midlands.
On receiving the honour, Mark said he was “delighted” and paid tribute to colleagues across the sector who work tirelessly to keep communities safe.
Honours for honorary graduates
The University also extends its congratulations to members of its wider community recognised in the Honours, including honorary graduates such as acclaimed photojournalist Sir Don McCullin, who has been appointed a Companion of Honour and Dr Jacqueline Wright, appointed a Lieutenant of The Royal Victorian Order (LVO).
One of the world’s most influential digital leaders and a supporter of scholarships at the University, Dr Jacky Wright recently returned to Bath to deliver the second event in its Adelard series, marking the University's 60th anniversary year.
Professor Phil Taylor, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Bath, said:
“We are immensely proud to see Bath alumni Christine Gibbons and Mark Byers recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours. Their achievements reflect not only exceptional professional leadership, but also a deep and enduring commitment to serving communities – whether through improving national security and public services, or championing the transformative power of sport and wellbeing. They exemplify the very best of our University community, using their knowledge, skills and values to make a positive difference in the world.
“We are also delighted to see members of our wider University community recognised, including honorary graduates Sir Donald McCullin CH CBE and Dr Jacqueline Wright LVO.”