Graduate and former Mayor awarded MBE

A graduate from the University of Wolverhampton and a former Mayor for the city has been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours list.  

Councillor Claire Darke, who graduated from the University in 1992 having studied Humanities, has received an MBE for services to Local Government, to Disability and to Suicide Prevention. 

When Claire was Mayor of the city between 2019 and 2021, she raised money for the Wolverhampton Suicide Prevention Stakeholder Forum as one of her nominated charities. 

Reflecting on the MBE, Claire said: “It was such an honour to be nominated for an MBE, knowing someone looked at my work and took time to make the nomination.  

“To be recognised by the King is truly humbling. This honour is not just for me, but for Wolverhampton itself — a city of resilience, creativity, and community spirit. It belongs to every individual and organisation that works tirelessly to make our city a better place.”  

Claire’s time at the University began more than 30 years ago when she studied for a Diploma in Higher Education and then went onto study Humanities.  

Looking back at her time at the University, Claire said: “Studying at the University of Wolverhampton improved my confidence and opened up all kinds of possibilities and opportunities that I had not previously considered.  

“Studying at the University, in the heart of Wolverhampton, allowed me to develop connections in the city and with people. These connections helped me to be persuaded to stay and make Wolverhampton my home. I got involved in local organisations and eventually got involved in local politics where I became a City Councillor and eventually the City Mayor. 

“The University of Wolverhampton offer opportunities to explore possibilities you may not have considered.”  

To find out more about graduate success, check out the Every Story Has a Start web page which showcases our exceptional alumni across the globe doing incredible things. High achievers from the worlds of literature, business, sport, film and the arts feature, sharing how their lives and careers have developed since their days studying with us.    

After graduation, graduates become members of the Alumni Association and are encouraged to keep in touch, to take advantage of a wide range of benefits and support on offer, including a discount for postgraduate study.   

*Picture credit: City of Wolverhampton Council