Congratulations to Krysia Butwilowska MBE

We are delighted to share the wonderful news that Krysia Butwilowska, Chair of the Friends of Portsmouth Cathedral, has been awarded an MBE in the King's Birthday Honours list.

The honour recognises more than 50 years of dedicated service to education as a teacher, headteacher, and school governor. Krysia is a familiar and much-valued presence in the life of Old Portsmouth, and this recognition is richly deserved.

Krysia's story is a remarkable one. The daughter of a Polish serviceman who fought with the 8th Army in North Africa and Italy before settling in West Sussex, she began her teaching career in 1968 and went on to lead schools across the country, turning around institutions in special measures, championing pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds, and raising standards wherever she served.

Perhaps her most celebrated achievement came in Portsmouth itself. Appointed headteacher of St Luke's CofE Comprehensive School in 1999, when it had been placed in special measures, she led a transformation that saw the school released from measures in 2001 and named the second most improved school in the country in 2003. Her commitment to the young people of this city has never wavered.

Beyond her work in schools, Krysia has given generously of her time across Portsmouth's civic and cultural life, as a governor and chair of governors at Portsmouth High School, a trustee of the New Theatre Royal, a trustee of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation, and a director of the Royal Naval Club and Royal Albert Yacht Club.

Krysia is also the Chair of the Friends of Portsmouth Cathedral, and a trustee of Portsmouth Cathedral Development Trust - bringing the same energy, wisdom, and commitment to the role that has characterised her entire career. The Friends play a vital part in supporting the life and work of the cathedral, and Krysia's leadership has been invaluable.

The Very Revd Dr Anthony Cane, Dean of Portsmouth, said: " We are all delighted that Krysia’s extraordinary life of service has been recognised in this way, and we could not be prouder to have her as part of our cathedral family. Krysia continues to contribute to the community in a variety of ways, including as Chair of the Friends of Portsmouth Cathedral, bringing her warmth, dedication, and wealth of experience to the role.”

We send Krysia our warmest congratulations on this thoroughly well-earned honour.

Learn more about the Friends of Portsmouth Cathedral here.