ARU professor awarded OBE

Professor Shahina Pardhan, the founding director of the vision and eye research institute at Anglia Ruskin University, has been awarded an OBE in the New Year’s Honours List 2025.  

Recognised for her services to optometry and preventing blindness, Prof Pardhan became the UK’s first female professor of optometry in 2001.  

In November 2024, the College of Optometrists made Prof Pardhan a life fellow during its annual diploma ceremony in recognition of her outstanding contribution to eye health.  

The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers also recognised Prof Pardhan in March 2024 with a Silver (Fincham) medal, which was only the sixth time the accolade had been awarded.