Fife College has celebrated the presentation of an Honorary MBE to Lecturer and Board Member Lorraine Wilkinson, recognising her outstanding contribution to communities across Fife.
The award was presented on behalf of His Majesty the King by the Lord-Lieutenant of Fife, Robert Balfour, at a special ceremony held at the College's Levenmouth Campus on Monday (8 June).
The special ceremony brought together students, colleagues, family, friends and civic leaders to honour Lorraine's longstanding commitment to education, inclusion and community service.
Among those in attendance were the Provost of Fife, Councillor Jim Leishman, Fife College Principal, Jim Metcalfe, Chair of the Fife College Board, David Watt OBE and representatives from the Lord-Lieutenant's honours team, including Captain Jim Leggat MBE DL.
To ensure Lorraine's family in South Africa could also be part of the celebrations, the presentation was recorded and will be shared with them, allowing them to mark this significant milestone from afar.
Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed an afternoon tea prepared and served by Culinary Arts students at the College, showcasing their skills and professionalism while providing a fitting conclusion to the day's celebrations.
Supported Programmes Lecturer Lorraine, who has dedicated more than 30 years to education and has been with Fife College for the past 18 years, was awarded the Honorary MBE for her exceptional contribution to communities in Fife. Throughout her career, she has championed equality, diversity and widening access, while helping to shape the strategic direction of the College through her role on the Board.
Beyond her work at Fife College, Lorraine has devoted countless hours to voluntary service, supporting community organisations including the Linton Lane Centre and serving as a Sunday school teacher and organist at her local Methodist church. Her commitment to helping others has earned widespread recognition, including the Herald Higher Education Community Award in 2022.
Speaking following the presentation, Lorraine said:
“I was truly overwhelmed and humbled by the support shown to me at the event. To see so many colleagues, friends, family and community partners come together to celebrate this honour means more than I can say.
“I would like to thank everyone who helped make the day so special, including those who organised the event and the students and staff who prepared the afternoon tea. Their hard work and generosity made the occasion unforgettable.
“This recognition reflects the incredible people and communities I have had the privilege to work alongside throughout my career, and I am deeply grateful for their friendship, encouragement and support."
Jim Metcalfe, Principal of Fife College, said:
“Lorraine is an integral part of both Fife College and the wider Fife community. For more than 30 years, she has dedicated her career to education and to supporting others, making a profound difference to the lives of some of our most vulnerable learners.
“Through her roles as a Lecturer, Board Member and volunteer, she has consistently championed equality, diversity and widening access to education, always believing that everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed.
“Her commitment to helping others extends far beyond the College, and this honour is a fitting recognition of the extraordinary contribution she has made to communities across Fife.
“We are incredibly proud of Lorraine and delighted to celebrate this well-deserved achievement with her."
Provost of Fife, Jim Leishman, said:
“I’m absolutely delighted to see Lorraine recognised with an Honorary MBE for her outstanding service to communities across Fife.
“Lorraine’s commitment to education, equality and widening access has made a real difference to the lives of many people over a long and dedicated career. Her dedication to volunteering and community life, from supporting local organisations to her work in the church, highlights the depth of her commitment to making a positive difference.
“It was especially fitting to see so many colleagues, students and friends come together to celebrate her achievements. Lorraine’s impact is clear to all who have worked with her, and this honour reflects the respect and admiration she has earned across Fife.
“On behalf of the people of Fife, I offer Lorraine my warmest congratulations on this well-earned recognition.”
Photograph: Lorraine Wilkinson is pictured following the presentation of her Honorary MBE at Fife College's Levenmouth Campus, alongside (left to right) Captain Jim Leggat MBE DL, Hugh Wilkinson, Lord-Lieutenant of Fife, Robert Balfour, Provost of Fife, Councillor Jim Leishman, and Fife College Principal Jim Metcalfe.