Alumna awarded OBE in New Year's Honours list
A Keele University alumna has been awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours list for public and voluntary services to prisoners in the UK and abroad.
Lynn Caroline Saunders, from Nottinghamshire, studied Applied Social Studies at Keele University from 1982-1986 and is now a Governor at Whatton Prison.
After graduating from Keele University she worked as a Probation Officer for five years before joining the Probation Service on the accelerated probation scheme. Lynn has worked for the Prison Service since 1992 becoming a Senior Manager in 1996 and has been a Governor in several prisons since 2000.
Lynn said: “I was really delighted when I found out that I’d even been nominated for an OBE, it was a real honour. The best part so far since it’s been announced is how lovely everyone has been. Family, friends and colleagues have been so nice in congratulating me.”
Whilst studying at Keele, Lynn lived in Barnes Hall and was Athletic Union Treasurer as well as taking part in various sport clubs.
Speaking about her time at Keele, Lynn said: “I have so many fond memories of my time at Keele University, I loved taking part in sports and I really made the most of my time there. I also really enjoyed my vocational course, I originally thought I would go into social work but as part of my studies I moved into the probation service and started working with offenders which I enjoyed.
“Working with offenders with a rehabilitative approach is something I feel very passionate about, to prevent them from committing an offence again.”
Lynn’s OBE recognises her significant contribution to the treatment and rehabilitation of offenders, both nationally and internationally, and to the ultimate aim of a reduction in victims.
In addition to her role as Governor of HMP Whatton, Lynn is the founder of the Safer Living Foundation (SLF). She is also a trustee for Prisoners Abroad, the only UK charity caring for the welfare of British prisoners in foreign prisons.