Congratulations to Massey’s King’s Birthday Honours List 2026 recipients

Sir James joined Massey University in 1980 after completing his PhD in Educational Psychology at Canada’s University of Alberta. During his 45 year career at Massey, he held a variety of academic and leadership roles, including serving as Head of the Department of Learning and Teaching and Pro Vice-Chancellor of the College of Education from 2003 to 2012.

A leading researcher in learning disabilities, dyslexia and literacy education, Sir James has played a significant role in shaping literacy teaching and learning in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally. His pioneering research has influenced national policy and contributed to the development of structured literacy approaches now being implemented across New Zealand schools. He has published more than 150 research articles and books and has held numerous national and international leadership positions, including serving as President of the International Academy for Research in Learning Disabilities. In 2024, he received the Eminent Researcher Award from Learning Difficulties Australia.

Sir James says learning of the honour came as a complete surprise.

"I was stunned when I received notification that I was to be awarded a knighthood. My wife and I were in Japan at the time and the award just seemed surreal, out of the blue. I've been overwhelmed by what the award means and incredibly honoured."

Sir James says he is most proud of the work undertaken by Massey's literacy research team and the impact it has had on literacy policy and teaching practice.

"The most rewarding part has been the opportunity to contribute to changes in literacy policy and teaching in primary schools. These changes are clearly having a positive impact, with far more young children experiencing initial success in learning to read and write than has been the case over the previous four to five decades."

Massey alumnus Bryan Mogridge ONZM has been named a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) for services to children's health, governance and philanthropy.

Mr Mogridge was previously appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 1999, has served as Chair of the Massey University Foundation since 2016, and was involved with the Starship Foundation for more than three decades. In 2024, Mr Mogridge was awarded the university’s highest accolade, the Massey Medal, in recognition of his ongoing commitment to Massey University, and his enduring impact in multiple leadership and governance roles across the business sector.

Massey University congratulates all staff, former staff and alumni recognised in the King's Birthday Honours List 2026, including:

Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM):

• Hilary Souter (Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Administration) for services to the advertising industry.

Officers of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM):

• Ronald Beatson (Master of Agriculture Science) for services to horticulture.
• Baye Riddell (Master of Māori Visual Arts) for services to Māori clay art.

Members of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM):

• Joseph Hollander (Massey Director, Strategic Facilities Management 1993 to 2008) for services to the construction industry and the community
• Sharon Brownie (Master of Education Administration) for services to health and nursing education.
• Janice Kuka (Master of Arts) for services to Māori health.
• Terese Marr (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) for services to ADHD support and philanthropy.
• Vicky Lassen (Postgraduate Diploma in Sport Management) for services to netball and lifesaving.
• Joan Rosier-Jones (Bachelor of Arts) for services to writing and education.

Recipients of the King’s Service Medal (KSM):

• Keith Bone (Diploma in Horticulture Fruit Production) for services to swimming.
• Selwyn June (Bachelor of Science) for services to wildlife conservation.
• Elizabeth Mortland (Bachelor of Social Work) for services to the community.
• Johanna Naus (Postgraduate Diploma in Rehabilitation) for services to seniors and rainbow community.
• Norma Roberts (Bachelor of Education) for services to early childhood education.
• Kathy Webb (Graduate Diploma Business Studies) for services to the community.