GCU Awards Honorary Professorship to Chancellor Dr Anne Marie Imafidon MBE
Glasgow Caledonian University is delighted to announce the award of an Honorary Professorship to its Chancellor, Dr Anne‑Marie Imafidon MBE - an internationally recognised technologist, educator and social innovator whose work continues to expand opportunity in STEAM education.
Professor Imafidon’s appointment, following a rigorous, independently conducted University process and formal internal approval, recognises her outstanding and sustained contribution to education, external engagement, and research-informed practice, underpinned by a deep commitment to widening participation, equitable digital skills development, and inclusive talent pipelines.
A trailblazer in widening access in STEAM, Professor Imafidon is the Co-Founder and CEO of Stemettes, one of Europe’s most impactful social enterprises in science and technology education. Through this work, she has supported over 70,000 girls, young women, and non-binary young people into STEAM pathways - building vital bridges between education and industry and creating diverse talent pipelines for the future.
Her influence extends nationally and globally. As a trusted advisor to UK government departments and the UK Government’s Women in Tech Envoy, she has helped shape policy on AI, digital inclusion, and the future of work, ensuring that technological progress is both ethical and inclusive. Her collaborations with leading organisations - including PA Foundation, Bank of America, GSK and and the NHS - have strengthened connections between education, employment, and innovation.
In education, Professor Imafidon’s programmes, publications, and thought leadership have helped reshape how STEM is taught and experienced - championing inclusive curricula, digital skills, and equitable access to opportunity.
She is also a powerful public voice, bringing complex conversations about technology and society to wide and diverse audiences through major media appearances like being the temporary arithmetician on Channel 4’s Countdown and as host of the acclaimed podcast Women Tech Charge.
In announcing the Honorary Professorship, GCU’s Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Mairi Watson said: “Awarding this Honorary Professorship recognises Professor Imafidon’s exceptional achievements and international standing, as well as the profound impact she has had within GCU. As Chancellor, she has inspired our students - and wider University community - to stay curious and to approach their ambitions with confidence and boldness.
Professor Imafidon said: “Being the Chancellor of GCU and serving as an ambassador for the institution has been one of the most fulfilling roles of my life. Our alignment on values, fairness and equity continues to inspire me and show what’s possible across all spheres of life. I gratefully accept this Honorary Professorship and look forward to a new level of relationship with the institution. I will proudly continue to wave the GCU flag with this title.”