Open University Tutor makes the King’s Honours list

Posted on 1 July 2025 • University news

Open University tutor, Diane Powles, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her services to Nursing and to Education in the Kings Birthday Honours list 2025.

The honours list gives recognition to people who have made outstanding contributions to their sectors across the UK.

On finding out she had been honoured, Diane said:

“I feel very humbled and privileged to have been nominated,’ said Diane. ‘Nursing, healthcare, and education are communities of immensely talented, caring, dedicated and hard-working individuals.

‘A career is not a solo journey. I am grateful to all the patients and colleagues who have supported and mentored me along my learning journey which in turn has encouraged me to embrace opportunities to make a difference.”

Professor Klaus-Dieter Rossade, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, said:

“Congratulations to Diane on receiving this honour in recognition of her leadership and commitment throughout her wide-ranging career in nursing and education. I am delighted that Diane brings her fantastic expertise and dedication to her important work as a tutor on our nursing programme at The Open University.”

Diane, who is based in Wales, joined the OU in 2019, tutoring on the undergraduate nursing programme. With 44 years of experience in healthcare, Diane’s career has included various clinical and leadership roles in the NHS, Higher Education, and the Royal College of Nursing. She has also worked with the Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) as Strategic Education Adviser.

Diane  has lead on many initiatives, including the development of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Prince of Wales Nursing Cadets, now called the RCN Kings Nursing Cadets. The scheme, which is supported by HRH King Charles III, helps young people develop their skills and supports them towards a career in nursing.