Professor Francis Hughes receives his MBE

On Tuesday 23rd April, Professor Francis Hughes attended Windsor Castle where Princess Anne made him a Member of the Order of the British Empire, in recognition of his outstanding services to Dentistry.

Francis thoroughly enjoyed his special day and was joined by his very proud family, wife Elaine and son Aidan.

Francis has dedicated a lifetime of service to improving oral health and dental research in the UK and internationally and made a significant impact on improving dental education and patient care. He has worked tirelessly to improve oral health by furthering scientific knowledge and practice through innovative research, education and training.

Throughout his exemplary 40-year NHS career, Francis has undertaken considerable unpaid charitable roles in addition to his work. Despite stepping back from his full-time clinical role as Professor of Periodontology, King’s College London, he continues his research studies, teaches research methodologies and contributes to educational Faculty programmes.

As an internationally recognised academic, Francis has devoted his life to educating and inspiring generations of undergraduates, contributing to postgraduate/specialist level training in Periodontology for students from around the world. In doing so, he has provided a substantial part of the workforce delivering complex periodontal care at specialist/consultant level - an incredible achievement.

Through his outstanding contributions to research and teaching, Francis has directly impacted the dental profession, benefitting patients around the world. In addition, Francis has dedicated a considerable amount of time to voluntary and charitable services. Including services to BSP and EFP, Francis has worked tirelessly for many charities and organisations, guiding them to greater success and influence for the benefit of dental professionals, patients and the public. 

Everyone at BSP is extremely proud of Francis and we congratulate him on his richly deserved honour.