Two members of King’s College London’s community have been recognised in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours, announced on Monday.
The honours system recognises individuals for achievements in public life or for sustained service to the UK.
William “Bill” Luckhurst, Senior Technical Manager (Projects) in the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical and Engineering Sciences, has been awarded the British Empire Medal for services to Scanning Electron Microscopy.
This award recognises his outstanding contribution to scientific research and technical innovation.
For over 40 years, he has been a part of the King’s Community and was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017, as well as the Technician of the Year from the Institute of Physics in 2023. He has both provided technical management expertise and supported research activities within the faculty.
Luckhurst has indicated his intention to retire in 2029, which would coincide with the university’s bicentenary and mark 50 years of service.
“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.”
Bill Luckhurst
I’m fortunate to do something I genuinely love.
Michelle Agyemang, a Business Management student at King’s and professional footballer for Women’s Super League club Arsenal, was awarded an MBE for her services to Association Football.
At age 20, Agyemang is the youngest recipient in the 2026 honours list.
She was a member of the England national team that won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 tournament.
Previously, she has been awarded the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year in 2025 and the King’s Future Alumni Award. She also participates in the 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.”
Michelle Agyemang
King’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shitij Kapur, noted that these awards reflect the “breadth of talent, commitment and impact across King’s – from advancing knowledge to excelling on the football pitch.”
The 2026 Birthday Honours list recognises 1,182 community changemakers across the country. Six members of the King’s community were also recognised earlier this year in the New Year Honours.
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