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Professor Geoffrey Crossick awarded MBE in New Year Honours List

Date

Written by
Mark Piggott

Former University of London Vice-Chancellor, Professor Geoffrey Crossick, has received an MBE for services to the Arts and to Education in the 2025 New Year Honours List.

Professor Geoffrey Crossick
Professor Geoffrey Crossick

Professor Crossick, who is also a Distinguished Fellow of the School of Advanced Study, has shaped arts and humanities education and the cultural sector in the UK through three decades of leadership and advocacy. His influence spans academic, cultural and public service roles, including his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the University of London from 2010-12. 

His seminal 2006 paper 'Knowledge Transfer without widgets: The Challenge of the Creative Economy' transformed understanding of the creative industries' economic impact. Later, as Director of the AHRC's Cultural Value Project (2012-16), he led research that has become an international reference point for measuring cultural engagement's societal impact. 

As Chief Executive of the Arts and Humanities Research Board (AHRB), he was fundamental in establishing the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and strengthening research support for the creative sectors. 

As a descendent of Jewish emigres fleeing persecution, Professor Crossick has been committed to supporting equity and inclusion across different bodies. As Chair of the Crafts Council Trust, he actively addressed underrepresentation at a Board level. 

In its citation, the University of London noted: 

No academic in the UK has arguably had a greater impact on why it matters to map cultural value than Geoff. He has been named a Distinguished Senior Fellow by the University of London in recognition of this lifelong and life lasting contribution to the humanities.

Professor Crossick’s exceptional service in the voluntary and charity sector were also noted in the citation. He has tirelessly promoted the vibrancy and sustainability of cultural institutions at the heart of public life in the UK. 

The University of London sends warm congratulations to Professor Crossick MBE.

This page was last updated on 22 January 2025