Hugh Baird College’s Principal and Chief Executive, Rachael Hennigan OBE, will be honoured with Liverpool John Moores University’s (LJMU) highest accolade this spring.
The award is for recognising her outstanding contribution to further education and her lifelong commitment to transforming opportunities for young people and adults across the Liverpool City Region.
Rachael will receive an honorary fellowship during LJMU’s spring graduation ceremonies at Liverpool Cathedral in April.
She joins fellow recipients Phil Kenyon, a world-leading golf coach, and Andrea Nixon MBE, Chair of National Museums Liverpool.
From Student to Principal: A Lifelong Connection with LJMU and Hugh Baird College
Rachael’s relationship with both institutions spans over an impressive span of two decades.
Growing up in Bootle, Sefton, she attended Archbishop Beck Catholic High School, completed her A-levels at Hugh Baird College, and graduated from LJMU’s IM Marsh campus in 2002 with a degree in Physical Education, Sport and Dance.
She returned to Hugh Baird College as Principal and Chief Executive in 2020.
Since taking the helm, Rachael has driven remarkable improvements in educational outcomes and student experience.
In November 2024, Hugh Baird College earned an Outstanding Ofsted rating, placing it in the top 10% of further education colleges nationally.
Inspectors highlighted the College as “transforming the lives of young people across the region,” praising its strong leadership and clear, ambitious vision.
Rachael Hennigan OBE Reflects on Honorary Fellowship
Rachael Hennigan OBE said:
“It is a privilege to receive an honorary fellowship from LJMU.
“The university was instrumental in providing me with the foundations that have enabled me to work across many educational settings.
“I fully recognise the impact that the university has had on my life and lives of so many across the city region, and so to be associated with it in this way is an honour.”
Professor Mark Power, LJMU Vice-Chancellor, added:
“I am delighted that our graduating class of 2026 will be joined by three exceptional individuals who will join the university fellowship.”
“It’s really important that we recognise the achievements of people who have already made a difference in their professional lives and who will continue to be role models for us all.
“I am particularly proud that we will be welcoming back two alumni who have made such an impact since graduating from LJMU and who continue to be superb ambassadors for the university.”
