A PRINCIPAL who has led the successful development of one of the first technical college’s in Bucks has been awarded an OBE.
Pauline Odulinski, Principal and Chief Executive of Aylesbury College, has been appointed an OBE for services to Further Education in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
The Thame resident joined Aylesbury College more than 25 years ago as maternity cover and has been a passionate supporter for both vocational and academic education.
She developed the Buckinghamshire Integrated Learning Campus for all ages and all abilities.
She also led the successful development of one of the first 14 University Technical Colleges (UTC) in Bucks, in partnership with Bucks New University. Bucks UTC will open in September.
David Lidington, MP for Aylesbury, said: “I am delighted by the news. During her time as principal, Pauline has restored and strengthened the College’s education reputation.
“The most enduring memorial to her time at the College will not even be its new buildings, but the greater opportunities for Aylesbury’s young people that her leadership made possible.”
Pauline will retire as principal in August.
She said: “I am very pleased and touched that I should be considered worthy of such an honour. I am delighted on behalf of all those I represent.
“I am very proud of working at Aylesbury College which is an amazing organisation, and in the wider community of Buckinghamshire.
“My job has been a pleasure and a privilege as I have worked with so many lovely people. In the field of education, further education is the Cinderella sector but with such a diverse remit and one that plays a highly important role in supporting, developing and educating people to achieve their goals.
“The contribution to both the social and economic development of the region is significant and vital.”
Sally Munday, chief executive of England Hockey and chief operating officer for Great Britain Hockey was awarded an MBE for services to hockey. She lives in Chinnor.
