The Society was pleased to see a number of economists recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours announced in June. This included RES Council member Prof Jo Blanden (University of Surrey) who was awarded an OBE for services to economics.
From 2000 to 2005 Jo Blanden was a full-time researcher in the Centre for Economic Performance (CEP) at the London School of Economics and completed her PhD at UCL over this time. She joined the Department of Economics at Surrey in October 2005 and is a Visiting Fellow at the Centre for Economic Performance, LSE, a Research Affiliate at the Centre for Education Policy and Equalising Opportunities, UCL and a Research Fellow at the Education Policy Institute. An applied microeconomist, Jo’s work has shaped debates on social mobility for more than two decades.
As well as her academic achievements, Jo has made significant contributions to RES’s work to improve diversity and inclusion in the profession, including as a member of the RES Women’s Committee where she is Co-Chair of the PhD Mentoring Programme. She is also a member of the RES Nominations and Appointments Committee, and sits on the Diversity and Inclusion Steering Committee.
Prof Jo Swaffield, Professor of Economics and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Southampton and Chair of the Women’s Committee stated: “On behalf of the Women’s Committee, I am delighted to congratulate Professor Jo Blanden on this richly deserved recognition for her research on social mobility and her leadership on increasing diversity within Economics through the Royal Economics Society. Jo’s research over the last two decades has evidenced a deep commitment to creating robust research findings on social mobility and through this to shape the policy debate. Jo’s significant contributions have extended beyond her academic research to her work within the RES, particularly on the Women’s Committee where her energy and commitment inspires and motivates those around her to make a difference.”
Jo Blanden stated: “I’m surprised and honoured to receive this award. I’ve always been passionate about using rigorous research to improve understanding and help and shape fairer policies, especially when it comes to children’s life chances. I would like to thank everyone who has supported my work professionally and personally.”
Others recognised included Prof Mariana Mazzucato (UCL), who was awarded a CBE, and the former Economics Editor of The Guardian Larry Elliott, who was awarded a CBE.
RES congratulates all those who received honours.