Dr Kondal Reddy Kandadi, former Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Bolton, was presented with an honorary MBE at a Graduation ceremony on Friday 15 July.
Professor George E Holmes DL, Vice Chancellor of the University, in his capacity as a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester and acting on behalf of the Lord-lieutenant, awarded the special honour, in a first for a British university.
Dr Kandadi has remained a citizen of India throughout his time in Bolton and last June decided to return to lead the development of a major new education project in his home town.
He has continued his connections with the institution by offering Bolton higher education and research programmes as part of his exciting new project.
Dr Kandadi, who studied as a post-graduate student at the University of Bolton, gaining his PhD Degree, rose through the ranks over the last 15 years to become Deputy Vice Chancellor.
After he was presented with the MBE, he said: “I have had the privilege of working with so many incredible people over the last 20 years. I would like to pay tribute to every one of them for their support and trust.”
Professor George E Holmes DL, President and Vice Chancellor of the University of Bolton, presented the award at the Albert Halls in Bolton Town Hall.
He said: “Kondal progressed through a number of ranks to being the Deputy Vice Chancellor and it is in that capacity that he has been presented for this award for his services to education, his marvellous contribution to this University but also to health and his work developing the Bolton College of Medical Sciences.”
As he presented Kondal with the award, Professor Holmes added: “It is in recognition of his valuable service that Her Majesty the Queen has appointed you to be an Honorary Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.
“It is with great pleasure that I, on behalf of Her Majesty, present you with the badge of the Order and congratulate you most sincerely.”