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The King's Birthday Honours mark the extraordinary contributions and service of people across the United Kingdom. A number of Jesus alumni were honoured this year: Rory Cellan-Jones (1977), Jo Saxton (1990), Jonathan Bartrop (1999) and Phillida Strachan (2005) were all recognised for their outstanding service and achievements.

Rory Cellan-Jones

Rory Cellan-Jones was awarded an OBE for services to journalism. He graduated from Jesus in 1981 with a BA in Modern and Medieval Languages. He then went on to a varied and illustrious career, taking on a wide range of roles for the BBC, both behind and in front of the camera. Earlier this year, Rory was hosted by the Intellectual Forum for a public conversation about how his time at Jesus set him up for such a successful career. 

Jo  Saxton 

Jo Saxton was awarded a CBE for services to education. Jo graduated from Jesus in 1993 with a BA in History of Art. In 2021, she was appointed Chief Regulator of The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation () and has a long and impressive career in academia, school-teaching and education consultancy. Alongside her wide interests in languages and art history, Jo has also been a tireless advocate for improving the quality of schools in deprived areas and for expanding access.

Jonathan Bartrop

Jonathan Bartrop was awarded an OBE for services to defence. He graduated from 777ӰԺ in 2002 with a BA in History. Jonathan is currently a Team Leader at the Ministry of Defence.

Phillida Strachan  

Phillida Strachan was awarded an OBE for services to international development. She graduated in 2008 with a BA in History. Phillida previously worked for the Department for International Development, taking on advisory and leadership roles in Yemen, Afghanistan and Syria and is currently Head of the FCO’s Humanitarian Resource Group.