Lakeside Arts champion awarded OBE

The achievements of the Director of Nottingham Lakeside Arts have been recognised in the New Year Honours list. Shona Powell has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her work in the arts - most notably transforming the University of Nottingham's arts centre and museum into a major national asset. She is one of two members of The University of Nottingham recognised. Kevin Bales, Professor of Contemporary Slavery , has been appointed to the Order of St Michael and St George for his work in helping to abolish slavery. As a passionate advocate for the arts Shona has engaged with children and families, as well as hard to reach communities, and ensured the programme of activities around productions and exhibitions at Nottingham Lakeside Arts is underpinned by learning. Her belief in the importance of the youth audience has led her to campaign artists to recognize that any work made for children should be made with the same rigour, commitment and passion shown when creating for an adult audience. Professor Sir David Greenaway, Vice Chancellor of The University of Nottingham said: "Shona believes that a child's first experience of theatre or dance must be magical and memorable.